to be unaware

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be unaware" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of not having knowledge or awareness about something. Example: "She seemed to be unaware of the changes happening in the company."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr. McManus, though, professed to be unaware.

The New York Times - Arts

They also seem to be unaware of nuance.

The New York Times

Most Western scholars appear to be unaware of it.

The New York Times - Arts

He claimed to be unaware of his son's business dealings.

The New York Times

Some stores appear to be unaware of these statutes.

The New York Times - Style

Many Administration lawyers, he said, appeared to be unaware of history.

The New Yorker

Mr Y is said to be unaware of the present situation".

Independent

Mr. Mancusi had appeared to be unaware of the simmering mood at Attica.

The New York Times

Beefheart seemed to be unaware that there was a band on stage with him.

The New Yorker

Again, I rewrote her movie to reflect feelings of which she seems to be unaware.

The New Yorker

On the campaign trail, Mr Bush often seemed to be unaware of these subtleties.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be unaware" to express a lack of knowledge, perception, or consciousness about a particular fact or situation. Ensure the context makes it clear what the subject is unaware of.

Common error

Avoid using "to be unaware" interchangeably with phrases like "to be unconcerned" if your intention is to convey a lack of knowledge rather than a lack of interest or worry. They have different meanings and using them incorrectly can confuse your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be unaware" functions primarily as a verbal phrase, often part of a larger clause, indicating a state of lacking knowledge or consciousness. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent usage, highlighting its role in conveying a lack of perception or information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to be unaware" is a versatile verbal phrase indicating a lack of knowledge or consciousness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in News & Media and Science. For greater precision, consider alternatives like "to be oblivious" or "to be ignorant", depending on the desired nuance. Remember to use "unaware of" rather than "unaware about" for standard usage. By understanding its function and avoiding common errors, you can effectively incorporate "to be unaware" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be oblivious

Implies a complete lack of awareness, sometimes suggesting a blissful ignorance.

to be unconscious of

Focuses on the lack of conscious perception.

to be ignorant of

Highlights a lack of knowledge or information.

to be incognizant of

A more formal way of saying "to be unaware of."

to be insensible to

Suggests a lack of emotional or sensory awareness.

to not realize

A simpler way to express a lack of awareness.

to fail to notice

Emphasizes the act of not perceiving something.

to have no idea

An informal way to express complete lack of knowledge.

to be out of the loop

Suggests being excluded from important information.

to be in the dark about

Implies being kept uninformed or lacking crucial knowledge.

FAQs

What does "to be unaware" mean?

The phrase "to be unaware" means not to know or realize something; lacking knowledge or consciousness about a particular fact or situation. It implies a state of not being informed or perceptive about something.

How can I use "to be unaware" in a sentence?

You can use "to be unaware" in sentences like, "The government seems "to be unaware" of how hard it is to believe them" or "Many Administration lawyers, he said, appeared "to be unaware" of history".

What are some alternatives to "to be unaware"?

Alternatives include "to be oblivious", "to be ignorant", "to not realize", or "to have no idea". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "unaware of" or "unaware about"?

"Unaware of" is generally preferred and more common than "unaware about". While "unaware about" isn't grammatically incorrect, "unaware of" is the standard and more accepted usage in most contexts.