should it be known

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "should it be known" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a condition or a hypothetical situation where information may be revealed or disclosed. Example: "Should it be known that the project is behind schedule, we will need to address the concerns of our stakeholders."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a project that brings people together and it should be known about everywhere.

The Guardian - Music

"It should be known who is behind them.

The New Yorker

It should be known as the decolonial scholarship.

The Guardian

"It should be known, not hidden in my cellar.

The New York Times - Arts

Perhaps from now on it should be known as the "Madoff scheme".

The Economist

"It should be known for what we are seeing here today.

The Guardian

The main historical facts about it should be known by every contemporary European.

The Guardian - Opinion

No wonder many people now suggest it should be known as the Department for Inequality.

The Guardian - Opinion

Perhaps in future it should be known as the Yorkshire fishing industry's marketing arm.

The Guardian

It should be known that the discussion of this topic is something new, extraordinary, and highly useful.

The New York Times

The cider technique (as it should be known) was then applied by the English to still wine imported from Champagne.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "should it be known" to introduce a condition where the revelation of certain information has consequences or triggers a specific action. It's most effective in formal writing where you want to emphasize a hypothetical scenario.

Common error

Avoid using "should it be known" in informal contexts or everyday conversations, as it can sound stilted or overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "if people find out" or "if it becomes public" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

Introducing a Conditional Clause: The phrase "should it be known" functions to introduce a conditional clause, setting up a hypothetical scenario where certain information is revealed. It implies potential consequences or actions contingent upon this revelation. While Ludwig provides example of similar phrases, the exact expression does not appear.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "should it be known" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a conditional clause, expressing a hypothetical situation where information is revealed. While Ludwig confirms its grammatical validity, the absence of direct examples indicates it is not a frequently used expression. Its formal tone makes it suitable for professional or academic writing, signaling a contingency or potential consequence based on information becoming public. Alternatives such as "if it becomes apparent" or "if it comes to light" may be considered for broader applicability. When aiming for clarity and impact, remember to consider the context and register for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

if it becomes apparent

Replaces "should it be known" with a direct conditional statement focusing on something becoming evident.

if it comes to light

Emphasizes the unveiling or discovery of information, similar to "should it be known".

in the event that it is disclosed

More formal and emphasizes the act of disclosing information.

if it were revealed

Uses a subjunctive mood to express a hypothetical revelation.

assuming it is discovered

Focuses on the act of finding out or uncovering something.

on the off chance that it is learned

Expresses a lower probability of the information becoming known.

should the information surface

Replaces the passive construction with a more active one, focusing on the information itself.

if the truth be told

Introduces a sense of honesty and potential surprise in the revelation.

in case it is unveiled

Focuses on the act of unveiling or making something public.

supposing it were uncovered

Uses a more speculative tone, imagining the uncovering of hidden information.

FAQs

What does "should it be known" mean?

The phrase "should it be known" introduces a conditional clause where the condition is the act of something becoming known. It sets up a hypothetical scenario where certain information might be revealed, often implying consequences or actions that would follow.

When is it appropriate to use "should it be known"?

It is appropriate in formal writing, legal documents, or situations where you want to emphasize the hypothetical nature of information becoming public and the implications that would arise. Avoid using it in casual conversations.

What can I say instead of "should it be known"?

You can use alternatives like "if it becomes apparent", "if it comes to light", or "in the event that it is disclosed depending on the context.

Is "should it be known" grammatically correct?

Yes, "should it be known" is grammatically correct. It uses an inversion structure common in formal English to introduce a conditional clause. The inversion is used instead of "if it should be known" and is typical of formal or legal writing.