only he knows

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "only he knows" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a specific person has exclusive knowledge about something. Example: "When it comes to the secret recipe, only he knows how to make it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Only he knows why.

Independent

70! Whatever this meant, only he knows.

Independent

Only he knows what happened".

The New York Times - Sports

"Only he knows, and he's not saying".

The New York Times

"But I think only he knows that.

The New York Times - Sports

Only he knows his reasons for it.

The New York Times - Sports

Only he knows exactly which way he is heading.

The Economist

"Only he knows how he feels," Cruz said.

The New York Times

What is going on inside, only he knows.

The New York Times - Sports

Only he knows the button-code on the lock.

The Guardian - Film

If there is a meaning, only he knows it.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase in dialogue, ensure it aligns with the speaker's tone and level of formality. It works well in both casual and more serious contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "only he knows" when multiple people could plausibly have the same knowledge. The phrase should genuinely reflect exclusive awareness, not just a probability or higher likelihood of knowing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "only he knows" functions as a clause within a sentence, typically serving to emphasize the exclusivity of knowledge possessed by a specific male individual. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is deemed grammatically correct. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "only he knows" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to indicate that a particular male individual has exclusive knowledge about something. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is considered correct. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts and maintains a neutral tone, making it suitable for various situations. When employing this phrase, be certain that the knowledge truly rests solely with that person. Consider alternatives like "he alone knows" for emphasis or in more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

he alone knows

Emphasizes the solitary nature of the knowledge, highlighting that no one else is privy to it.

he's the only one who knows

States explicitly that he is the sole possessor of the information.

the knowledge is his alone

More formal and emphatic, stressing his unique possession of the knowledge.

it's known only to him

Passive voice construction emphasizing the exclusivity of the knowledge.

he alone is aware

Highlights awareness rather than specific knowledge, suggesting a deeper understanding.

he's the only one aware

Similar to the above, but less formal.

he keeps that knowledge to himself

Focuses on his deliberate withholding of the knowledge.

the secret is his and his alone

Emphasizes the secret nature of the information.

he is the sole keeper of that information

Presents him as a guardian or protector of the information.

only he can say

Focuses on his exclusive authority to reveal or comment on something.

FAQs

How can I use "only he knows" in a sentence?

The phrase "only he knows" is used to indicate that a particular male individual possesses exclusive knowledge about something. For example: "The reason for his sudden departure? "Only he knows"."

What phrases are similar to "only he knows"?

Alternatives to "only he knows" include "he alone knows", "he is the only one who knows", or "the knowledge is his alone". The best choice depends on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is it appropriate to use "only he knows" in formal writing?

Yes, "only he knows" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, as demonstrated by its frequent use in news articles and other reputable sources. However, consider slightly more formal alternatives like "the knowledge is his alone" for academic or highly professional contexts.

When should I NOT use "only he knows"?

Avoid using "only he knows" if the knowledge in question is likely shared by multiple people. It's best reserved for situations where the individual truly possesses unique insight or information that others lack.