many unknowns

USAGE SUMMARY

"many unknowns" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a situation or problem that has multiple unknown factors or variables. Example: The researchers faced many unknowns when trying to develop a cure for the new virus. (Here, the phrase is used to describe the complexity and unpredictability of the situation.).

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"There are many unknowns".

The New York Times

Moreover, many unknowns remain.

The New York Times

There are so many unknowns".

The New York Times

There are too many unknowns.

The Guardian

There are many unknowns and no guarantees.

The New York Times - Health

"There are still too many unknowns".

The New York Times

The researchers will test many unknowns.

The Guardian

There are just too many unknowns".

The New York Times - Science

"She has the ability to live with many unknowns.

The New York Times

There are simply too many unknowns, he theorized.

The New York Times

But that is another of many unknowns, Mr. Alvarez said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "many unknowns", clearly define the area or subject to which these unknowns relate. This provides context and avoids vagueness.

Common error

Avoid using "many unknowns" to dismiss a topic entirely. Instead, acknowledge the unknowns while highlighting what is known and suggesting ways to address the gaps in knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "many unknowns" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement or object, describing a situation or topic characterized by a large number of uncertain or unresolved factors. Ludwig examples show it modifying verbs like "remain", "are" or "confronted". Ludwig AI confirms it's a usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "many unknowns" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe situations characterized by significant uncertainty. Ludwig's analysis, supported by numerous examples from reliable sources, reveals its wide usage across various domains, including news, science, and business. While conveying uncertainty, it's important to use the phrase thoughtfully, avoiding overstatements and focusing on constructive ways to address knowledge gaps. Alternatives like "numerous uncertainties" or "unanswered questions" can provide nuanced variations, depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

numerous uncertainties

Replaces "unknowns" with "uncertainties", emphasizing the lack of definite knowledge.

a multitude of unanswered questions

Replaces "unknowns" with a more descriptive phrase, highlighting the sheer number of questions without answers.

several unresolved issues

Focuses on the lack of resolution, suggesting that the unknowns are problems needing solutions.

a host of imponderables

Uses a more formal and literary term ("imponderables") to denote things difficult or impossible to estimate or assess.

innumerable open questions

Similar to "unanswered questions" but emphasizes that the questions are still open for debate or investigation.

various uncertainties

Similar to "numerous uncertainties", but less intense.

countless open questions

Similar to "innumerable open questions", but less intense.

plenty of things we don't know

More informal and direct, emphasizing the lack of knowledge in a straightforward way.

a number of mysteries

Suggests a sense of intrigue or unsolved puzzles associated with the unknowns.

various unanswered questions

Similar to "various uncertainties", but less intense.

FAQs

How can I use "many unknowns" in a sentence?

You can use "many unknowns" to describe situations where there are numerous uncertainties or unresolved factors. For example, "There are "many unknowns" surrounding the long-term effects of the new drug."

What are some alternatives to "many unknowns"?

Alternatives include "numerous uncertainties", "unanswered questions", or "unresolved issues", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "many unknowns" or "multiple unknowns"?

Both "many unknowns" and "multiple unknowns" are grammatically correct. "Many unknowns" is generally more common and sounds more natural in most contexts.

How does "many unknowns" differ from "a few unknowns"?

"Many unknowns" implies a significant number of uncertainties, while "a few unknowns" suggests only a small number of unresolved issues. The choice depends on the actual degree of uncertainty involved.