makes itself known

USAGE SUMMARY

"makes itself known" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are trying to describe something that has made its presence or influence known without an obvious means of doing so. For example, "The solution to the problem made itself known when he connected all the pieces together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

But even in the gallery, Mr. Calatrava's design makes itself known.

The New York Times - Arts

And, in a funny way, this is when cinema itself makes itself known to the filmmaker.

The New Yorker

Gardley's ear for the sound of theatrical speech makes itself known at once: MISSIONARY: Lord, it's hot.

The New Yorker

On a cliff, moisture makes itself known: limestone turns brown, but the glass-and-steel surface of the Sears was invisibly lubricated by condensation from a host of gathering rain clouds.

The New Yorker

So I'm thinking I find a way to get a passenger I.D., take an overnight cruise to the next landing, come back flush the next day — I don't know — the modus is there, and it is only a matter of time till it makes itself known to me.

The New Yorker

Wildlife is hard to spot amid this intricate, organic superstructure, but is all the more special when it makes itself known.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 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

But the strain of her circumstances has made itself known.

The New York Times

Sometimes the past seeks to make itself known.

The New Yorker

So the Dome's extent is making itself known.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "makes itself known" to describe how something, often abstract or initially hidden, becomes noticeable or understood through its effects or manifestations. This phrasing is particularly effective when direct causation is not immediately apparent.

Common error

Avoid using "makes itself known" when a direct cause-and-effect relationship is obvious. For example, instead of saying "The loud noise made itself known", opt for "The loud noise was clearly audible" to maintain clarity and avoid unnecessary circumlocution.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "makes itself known" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the process by which something becomes apparent or noticeable. According to Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely used. Its function is to highlight how something reveals its presence or influence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Wiki

10%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "makes itself known" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression for describing how something becomes apparent or noticeable. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples across various contexts. It’s most frequently found in news and media, serving to illustrate a process of revelation. While versatile, it’s best used when the emergence of something is gradual or indirect. Remember to consider the specific nuance you wish to convey when choosing between "makes itself known" and alternatives like "becomes apparent" or "reveals itself".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

becomes apparent

Emphasizes the gradual unfolding and visibility of something.

reveals itself

Highlights the act of uncovering or disclosing something previously hidden.

manifests itself

Focuses on the tangible or perceptible appearance of something abstract.

becomes evident

Stresses the clarity and undeniable nature of the information.

comes to light

Suggests the discovery or uncovering of something previously unknown.

unveils itself

Implies a formal or ceremonial presentation of something.

proves to be

Highlights the verification or confirmation of a certain quality.

is brought to the fore

Emphasizes making something more prominent or noticeable.

comes into view

Focuses on something becoming visible or within sight.

springs to mind

Indicates something arising suddenly or unexpectedly in one's thoughts.

FAQs

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

You can use "makes itself known" to describe how something becomes apparent or noticeable, often subtly or indirectly. For example, "The problem "makes itself known" through decreased efficiency".

What are some alternatives to "makes itself known"?

Alternatives include "becomes apparent", "reveals itself", or "manifests itself", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "makes itself known" or "is revealed"?

"Makes itself known" implies a more gradual or indirect process of discovery, while "is revealed" suggests a more direct or intentional uncovering. The best choice depends on the context.

What does it mean when something "makes itself known"?

It means that something is becoming noticeable or apparent, often in a way that wasn't immediately obvious. It suggests that whatever is becoming known is actively demonstrating its presence or influence.