present state of knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "present state of knowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the current understanding or information available on a particular topic or field. Example: "The present state of knowledge regarding climate change indicates a significant rise in global temperatures over the past century."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Before embarking on such a revision for the Malacostraca, it is therefore extremely timely to take stock of the present state of knowledge by synthesizing and analyzing all of the presently available data.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

It is, in the present state of knowledge, the best approximation to the truth.

The Guardian - Books

Relative to the present state of knowledge, such goals appear fairly remote.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This chapter describes the present state of knowledge of three genetically determined isoforms of NOS.

Nitric Oxide Biology and Pathobiology

This chapter documents the present state of knowledge of adenosine receptors' role in health and disease.

Advances in Pharmacology

This chapter reviews the present state of knowledge of erosion processes, mechanics, and rates.

Treatise on Geophysics

But more probably, there can be no workable treaty on climate change, at least with the present state of knowledge.

The Economist

This book reviews the present state of knowledge of the anomalous magnetic moment a= g-2)/2 of the muon.

Stanford University

A linear dependence of the extinction velocity as a function of droplet diameter constitutes the present state of knowledge.

Combustion and Flame

Certainly the present state of knowledge calls for more research with a need for systematic, carefully controlled studies including randomized clinical trials in this area.

Nature

Indeed, it describes the present state of knowledge of the individual together with advice for further progress.

International Encyclopedia of the Social & Behavioral Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "present state of knowledge" to introduce a summary of current findings or to highlight gaps in understanding within a particular discipline.

Common error

Be specific about what area of knowledge you are referring to. Saying "the present state of knowledge is incomplete" is vague. Instead, specify the area: "The present state of knowledge regarding the long-term effects of microplastics is incomplete".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "present state of knowledge" functions as a noun phrase, often used as a subject or object in a sentence. It typically introduces a discussion, summary, or evaluation of the current understanding within a specific field or domain, as exemplified in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

88%

News & Media

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "present state of knowledge" is a commonly used and grammatically correct term that indicates the current understanding of a particular subject. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase frequently appears in scientific and academic contexts, but also finds usage in news and media. The phrase is used to set the scene for the reader. While generally formal, it's important to be specific about the knowledge area being discussed to avoid vagueness. Alternative terms include "current understanding" or "existing knowledge base". Based on Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

current understanding

Focuses on comprehension rather than the accumulation of facts.

existing knowledge base

Emphasizes the collected and organized information that is available.

state of the art

Highlights the most advanced level of knowledge or technology at a given time.

prevailing wisdom

Refers to the commonly accepted beliefs or understandings within a field.

contemporary insights

Stresses the modern or up-to-date nature of the knowledge.

current body of research

Highlights the research aspect of the current knowledge.

present level of awareness

Shifts the focus to the degree to which something is known or recognized.

established facts

Emphasizes proven or widely accepted pieces of information.

accepted understanding

Focuses on knowledge that is broadly agreed upon.

modern perspective

Highlights the viewpoint or outlook that is current.

FAQs

How can I use "present state of knowledge" in a sentence?

You can use "present state of knowledge" to preface a discussion of current understanding, as in, "The "present state of knowledge" indicates that further research is needed" or to acknowledge the limitations of current understanding, such as, "Given the "present state of knowledge", predicting long-term outcomes remains challenging".

What are some alternatives to "present state of knowledge"?

Alternatives include "current understanding", "existing knowledge base", or "state of the art", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "current understanding" or "present state of knowledge"?

While both are valid, "present state of knowledge" often implies a broader, more comprehensive overview, while "current understanding" might focus more on interpretation and comprehension.

How does the "present state of knowledge" influence research directions?

The "present state of knowledge" highlights what is known and, more importantly, what remains unknown, driving future research to fill gaps and challenge existing paradigms. It helps identify areas where "further research" is most needed.