to my knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

"to my knowledge" is both a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
This phrase is typically used to express that you are uncertain of the accuracy of the information you are providing, as in the example, "To my knowledge, no one has seen the missing documents."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(To my knowledge).

The New Yorker

VILLANTE: Not to my knowledge.

The New Yorker

Not to my knowledge.

The New York Times - Magazine

("Not to my knowledge," Mr. Weinstein said).

The New York Times

Mr. Summers, to my knowledge, has not).

The New York Times

"Not to my knowledge," he said.

The New York Times

To my knowledge it is still there.

The Guardian - Tech

VILLANTE: Unbelievably, no, to my knowledge.

The New Yorker

"Not to my knowledge," replied Mr Wallace.

Independent

To my knowledge, there are none.

The New York Times

"No?" "Not to my knowledge".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to my knowledge" to introduce a statement that you believe to be true but cannot guarantee. It adds a layer of transparency and humility to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "to my knowledge" when you possess definitive proof. This phrase implies uncertainty, so use it only when you're not entirely sure of the facts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to my knowledge" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase that modifies a statement, indicating the speaker's limited certainty or awareness. It adds a qualifier to assertions, acknowledging that the speaker's information may not be complete or entirely accurate. Ludwig AI indicates it is correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

13%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Science & Research

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to my knowledge" is a very common adverbial phrase used to express that a statement is true based on one's current understanding, but with an implied possibility of error or incompleteness. It is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, including news, business, and academic writing. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase adds a layer of transparency by acknowledging the limitations of one's knowledge. When using this phrase, remember that it is a way of being forthcoming about the scope of your understanding rather than an assertion of fact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

As far as I'm aware

Emphasizes the speaker's personal awareness as the limit of their knowledge, using a contraction.

In my understanding

Focuses on the speaker's personal interpretation and grasp of the situation.

Based on what I know

Directly states the reliance on the speaker's existing information.

To the best of my understanding

Highlights the speaker's comprehension as the basis for the statement.

According to my information

Attributes the statement to the speaker's possession of specific data.

As I understand it

Indicates that the speaker's knowledge is based on their interpretation of information.

If I'm not mistaken

Introduces a possibility of error in the speaker's knowledge.

From my perspective

Shifts the focus to the speaker's viewpoint and interpretation.

From what I can gather

Suggests that the speaker's knowledge is based on piecing together available information.

To my recollection

Links the statement to the speaker's memory and recall.

FAQs

How can I use "to my knowledge" in a sentence?

Start your sentence with "to my knowledge" to indicate that what you are about to say is based on your understanding but may not be completely accurate. For instance, "To my knowledge, no one has filed a complaint yet."

What are some alternatives to saying "to my knowledge"?

You can use alternatives like "as far as I'm aware", "to the best of my understanding", or "based on what I know" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "to my knowledge" or "in my opinion"?

"To my knowledge" indicates a limitation of information, whereas "in my opinion" expresses a personal belief. Use "to my knowledge" when referring to facts you're not entirely sure about, and "in my opinion" when expressing a subjective viewpoint.

Can "to my knowledge" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "to my knowledge" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a degree of uncertainty without undermining the writer's credibility. It is common in news reports, academic papers, and business communication.