make itself known

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make itself known" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to something that becomes apparent or is revealed, often in a subtle or indirect manner. Example: "The truth will eventually make itself known, no matter how much one tries to hide it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

There, perhaps, her next direction would make itself known.

The New York Times

However, dark matter does make itself known through its gravity.

The Economist

Sometimes the past seeks to make itself known.

The New Yorker

Yet the club faces the annual task of replenishing itself, and thus must make itself known.

University of California, Berkeley

The full scope of the disaster would make itself known over the coming days.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

After two or three quick tussles, the loser will usually make itself known by backing off.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

But, unseen, it makes itself known.

The Washington Post

A lurking resentment had made itself known.

The New York Times

Her creative unconscious makes itself known through her fingers typing.

University of California, Berkeley

But the strain of her circumstances has made itself known.

The New York Times

So the Dome's extent is making itself known.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make itself known" when you want to describe how something gradually or subtly becomes apparent, often without direct intervention. For example: "The problem will eventually make itself known if ignored."

Common error

Avoid using "make itself known" when referring to actions that require an external agent. The phrase is best used when the subject reveals itself naturally or passively, not through deliberate action by another. For example, it would be incorrect to say, "The company made itself known through aggressive marketing," as this implies a direct action rather than a natural revelation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make itself known" functions as a verb phrase that typically follows a noun or pronoun, indicating that the subject is becoming apparent or evident. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is grammatical and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

25%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make itself known" is a versatile phrase used to describe something becoming apparent or evident over time. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is most commonly found in news and academic contexts. While the phrase is generally appropriate for various registers, it’s important to consider alternatives like "become apparent" or "reveal itself" for nuanced meaning. Avoid using this phrase when describing actions that require an external agent; it is best suited for natural or passive revelations. Knowing these guidelines will help ensure accurate and effective communication when using the phrase "make itself known".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reveal itself

Emphasizes the active role of something in making its presence or nature known.

manifest itself

Refers to the way in which something intangible becomes visible or concrete.

become evident

Stresses the clarity and obviousness of something that is now known.

become apparent

Focuses on the gradual revelation of something that was previously hidden or unclear.

come to light

Suggests that something is discovered or made public, often after being concealed.

emerge

Highlights the process of something coming into existence or becoming known.

surface

Implies that something hidden or submerged rises to the surface and becomes visible.

be unveiled

Suggests a formal or deliberate revelation of something that was previously concealed.

come into view

Emphasizes the act of something becoming visible after being out of sight.

make an appearance

Focuses on the act of something showing up or becoming visible.

FAQs

How can I use "make itself known" in a sentence?

The phrase "make itself known" is used to describe something that becomes apparent or revealed, often in a subtle or indirect way. For example: "The full extent of the damage would make itself known over the coming days." You can also say: "The truth will eventually make itself known."

What are some alternatives to "make itself known"?

Alternatives include "become apparent", "reveal itself", or "come to light". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever incorrect to use "make itself known"?

Yes, it is incorrect if the subject does not reveal itself naturally or passively. Using it when there is a direct external agent is often wrong. For example, "The company made itself known through aggressive marketing" is not a good usage.

What's the difference between "make itself known" and "make itself heard"?

"Make itself known" refers to something becoming apparent or evident, while "make itself heard" means to actively express one's views or opinions to gain attention. They have distinct meanings and are used in different contexts.