uncommon knowledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "uncommon knowledge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to information or facts that are not widely known or understood by the general public. Example: "The book delves into uncommon knowledge about ancient civilizations that few historians have explored."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Hoover has set up a television programme, Uncommon Knowledge.

The Economist

Mr. Diggs's neighbors thought such uncommon knowledge could anchor a museum.

The New York Times - Arts

Even as a young man, Mr. Bonynge had uncommon knowledge of bel canto repertory and style.

The New York Times - Arts

But Ms. Lewis revealed the story of her parentage in her own memoir, "Uncommon Knowledge," in 1994.

The New York Times

Gessen, a Russian-born journalist who has written books on the post-Soviet intelligentsia and on the pitfalls of genetic testing, is no stranger to the burdens of uncommon knowledge.

The New York Times - Books

In 1994, her adopted daughter, Judy Lewis, maintained in an autobiography, "Uncommon Knowledge," that she was the daughter of Miss Young and Clark Gable and that she was conceived during the making of "Call of the Wild," in which the two starred.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

But Dr. Van Scott is one of dance's most persuasive producers, an uncommon blend of knowledge, devotion and theatrical savvy, and predictably enough the program made its points vividly.

The New York Times - Arts

The fact was, as he now allowed himself to recognize, that even at their first meeting he had sensed something remarkable about her, as though she really had access to some uncommon order of knowledge and power.

The New Yorker

However, neuralgia of this nerve is uncommon, and its knowledge is based on a handful of case reports.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

In the Intermountain West, where the majority of range is in federal management, removal of stock to enhance wildlife is not uncommon even though knowledge of wildlife-livestock interactions remains limited.

Pastoralism: Research, Policy and Practice

It was disappointing but not unexpected that families, teachers and text books were the uncommon sources of knowledge.

BMC Public Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "uncommon knowledge", ensure the context clearly indicates why the knowledge is not widely known—is it specialized, newly discovered, or deliberately concealed?

Common error

Avoid using "uncommon knowledge" when referring to information that is merely not well-remembered or requires a quick search to find. The phrase implies a more profound level of obscurity or specialization.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "uncommon knowledge" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "uncommon" modifies the noun "knowledge". It serves to describe a specific type of knowledge that is not widely held or easily accessible. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, such as describing expertise or access to rare information.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "uncommon knowledge" accurately describes specialized or rare information not widely known. As Ludwig AI highlights, its usage spans across news, science, and formal business contexts, with authoritative sources like The New York Times frequently employing it. While grammatically correct, overstating the rarity of information when using the phrase should be avoided. For alternative expressions, consider using "esoteric wisdom" or "specialized expertise" to add nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

little-known facts

Directly states that the knowledge is not widely known.

uncommon insight

Focuses on the depth and clarity of understanding.

specialized expertise

Highlights the professional or skill-based aspect of the knowledge.

unconventional wisdom

Implies knowledge that goes against established norms.

obscure understanding

Stresses the hidden or not easily apparent quality of the knowledge.

esoteric wisdom

Focuses on the mysterious or specialized nature of the knowledge.

niche awareness

Emphasizes knowledge specific to a particular area or interest.

rare erudition

Highlights the breadth and depth of learning.

select learning

Emphasizes the careful and deliberate acquisition of knowledge.

privy information

Suggests exclusive access to certain knowledge.

FAQs

How can "uncommon knowledge" be used effectively in writing?

Use "uncommon knowledge" to introduce specialized insights or perspectives that enhance the depth and credibility of your argument. For example, stating that you have "uncommon knowledge" in a particular field may suggest a higher level of expertise.

What are some alternatives to "uncommon knowledge"?

You can use alternatives like "esoteric wisdom", "specialized expertise", or "little-known facts" depending on the context.

Is "uncommon knowledge" formal or informal?

"Uncommon knowledge" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is generally more suited to situations where precision and credibility are important, such as academic or professional settings.

How does "uncommon knowledge" differ from common knowledge?

"Uncommon knowledge" refers to facts or information that are not widely known or understood, while common knowledge is what most people in a given community or field are expected to know.