Unkown vs. Unknown — Which is Correct Spelling?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on March 25, 2024
"Unkown" is an incorrect spelling of the word "unknown." "Unknown" refers to something that is not known or familiar.
Table of Contents
Which is correct: Unkown or Unknown
How to spell Unknown?
Unkown
Incorrect Spelling
Unknown
Correct Spelling
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Think of the correct spelling as "un" + "known" (both recognized words).
Visualize "unknown" as having a central 'k' surrounded by two 'n's.
Link the word "known" with "knowledge" to remember its correct form.
Remember "unknown" is the combination of "un-" (meaning not) and "known."
Recall that words starting with "un-" usually denote the opposite or absence of something.
ADVERTISEMENT
How Do You Spell Unknown Correctly?
Incorrect: The cause of the ancient civilization's disappearance is unkown.
Correct: The cause of the ancient civilization's disappearance is unknown.
Incorrect: The location of the treasure remains unkown.
Correct: The location of the treasure remains unknown.
Incorrect: Her reaction to the news is unkown.
Correct: Her reaction to the news is unknown.
Incorrect: Many species in the ocean are still unkown to science.
Correct: Many species in the ocean are still unknown to science.
Incorrect: The full extent of the damage is unkown at this time.
Correct: The full extent of the damage is unknown at this time.
Unknown Definitions
A person or thing that is not known or identified.
The caller was an unknown.
Not known; unfamiliar
A problem unknown in earlier times.
Not identified, ascertained, or established
Received flowers from an unknown admirer.
Not well known or widely known
An unknown artist.
That which is unknown
Investigating the unknown.
Something that is not known
This case has many unknowns.
A person who is not well known, as to the general public
Cast an unknown in the starring role.
An unknown person, especially an Unknown Soldier
The tomb of the unknowns.
(Mathematics) A quantity of unknown numerical value.
Not known; unidentified; not well known.
(algebra) A variable (usually x, y or z) whose value is to be found.
Any thing, place, or situation about which nothing is known; an unknown fact or piece of information.
A person of no identity; a nonentity
Past participle of unknow
Not known; not apprehended.
An unknown and unexplored region;
They came like angels out the unknown
Anyone who does not belong in the environment in which they are found
A variable whose values are solutions of an equation
Not known;
An unknown amount
An unknown island
An unknown writer
An unknown source
Being or having an unknown or unnamed source;
A poem by an unknown author
Corporations responsible to nameless owners
An unnamed donor
Not known to exist;
Things obscurely felt surged up from unsuspected depths in her
Not famous or acclaimed;
An obscure family
Unsung heroes of the war
Not known before;
Used many strange words
Saw many strange faces in the crowd
Don't let anyone unknown into the house
Not known or familiar to someone.
The solution remains unknown to the researchers.
Not having been previously known or recognized.
An unknown artist painted the masterpiece.
A place that has not been explored or mapped.
The deep sea is still largely unknown.
Not established or confirmed.
The cause of the fire is unknown.
Unknown Meaning in a Sentence
The unknown artist's work was finally recognized by a major gallery.
Many adventurers are drawn to the thrill of the unknown.
Exploring the unknown depths of the ocean fascinates many scientists.
Facing the unknown can be a daunting but exciting experience.
Children often fear the unknown, like dark rooms or strange noises.
The book delves into the unknown aspects of historical events.
Discovering unknown talents can be a rewarding experience.
His fate after the expedition remains unknown.
The unknown caller left a mysterious message.
The ingredient list included an unknown spice that added a unique flavor.
Cultures around the world have myths about unknown creatures and lands.
The number of unknown variables in the experiment was challenging.
Uncharted territories are often referred to as the unknown.
The unknown outcome of the game added to the excitement.
Researchers are always curious about the unknown aspects of human behavior.
Space exploration offers a glimpse into the vast unknown of the universe.
The depths of the human mind are largely unknown and fascinating.
The effect of the new policy on the economy is still unknown.
The artist ventured into the unknown with her innovative techniques.
In mathematics, solving for the unknown requires critical thinking.
Unknown Idioms & Phrases
Fear of the unknown
Being afraid of something because it is unfamiliar or not understood.
Many people have a natural fear of the unknown, which can hold them back.
Venture into the unknown
To embark on a journey or task without knowing the outcome or what to expect.
The explorers were ready to venture into the unknown in search of new lands.
The unknown factor
An element in a situation that is unpredictable or not yet understood.
Weather is often the unknown factor in planning outdoor events.
The unknown quantity
Someone or something whose effect, potential, or true nature is not yet known.
The new player was the unknown quantity in the team's strategy.
Unknown territory
A situation or area that is unfamiliar and possibly challenging.
Starting her own business was a step into unknown territory for her.
Chart the unknown
To explore or map out areas that are not yet understood or documented.
Scientists continue to chart the unknown regions of the deep sea.
Into the great unknown
Referring to a venture into completely unexplored and unfamiliar territory.
The pioneers headed into the great unknown, looking for a better life.
Embrace the unknown
To accept and welcome unfamiliar experiences or challenges with an open mind.
Moving to a new city requires one to embrace the unknown.
An unknown entity
Something that exists but whose nature, size, or importance is not known.
In the financial world, the startup was still an unknown entity.
Cross into the unknown
To move beyond the boundary of what is known or comfortable.
The researcher's new theory crossed into the unknown, challenging established beliefs.
Common Curiosities
Why is it called unknown?
It is called "unknown" because it denotes something that is not known or familiar.
What is the verb form of unknown?
There isn't a specific verb form for "unknown." The related verb is "know."
What is the root word of unknown?
The root word is "know".
Which vowel is used before unknown?
The vowel "u" is used at the beginning of "unknown".
What is the pronunciation of unknown?
Unknown is pronounced as /ʌnˈnoʊn/.
Which preposition is used with unknown?
Various prepositions can be used with "unknown," such as "to" or "of," depending on the context.
What is the plural form of unknown?
The plural form can be "unknowns" when referring to multiple unknown entities.
Which conjunction is used with unknown?
There isn't a specific conjunction exclusive to "unknown." Any standard conjunction (e.g., "and," "or," "but") can be used depending on the sentence.
Is unknown a noun or adjective?
Unknown can be both a noun and an adjective, depending on its use.
Is unknown a countable noun?
When used as a noun, it can be countable, e.g., "There are many unknowns in this equation."
Is unknown a collective noun?
No, "unknown" is not a collective noun.
Is unknown an abstract noun?
When used as a noun, "unknown" can be considered abstract as it refers to a concept rather than a tangible item.
Is the word unknown is imperative?
No, "unknown" is not imperative.
How many syllables are in unknown?
Unknown has three syllables.
What is another term for unknown?
Another term for unknown can be "unfamiliar" or "undiscovered."
What is the opposite of unknown?
The opposite of unknown is "known."
What is the first form of unknown?
There isn't a "first form" of "unknown" as it is not a verb. The related verb is "know."
What is the second form of unknown?
For the verb "know," the second form is "knew."
What is the singular form of unknown?
The singular form is "unknown".
Is unknown an adverb?
No, "unknown" is not an adverb.
How do we divide unknown into syllables?
It can be divided as un-known.
What is the third form of unknown?
For the verb "know," the third form is "known."
Which article is used with unknown?
Both "an" and "the" can be used with "unknown," depending on context.
Is unknown a negative or positive word?
The term "unknown" is neutral but can be perceived as negative or positive depending on context.
What is a stressed syllable in unknown?
The second syllable, "known," is stressed.
What part of speech is unknown?
Unknown can be an adjective or a noun.
How is unknown used in a sentence?
Unknown is used in a sentence like: "The origin of the artifact remains unknown."
Is unknown a vowel or consonant?
The term "unknown" starts with a vowel.
Is the unknown term a metaphor?
In some contexts, "the unknown" can be used metaphorically to refer to something mysterious or unexplored.
Which determiner is used with unknown?
Determiners like "an," "the," or "some" can be used with "unknown" depending on the context.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Practicly vs. PracticallyNext Comparison
Rhythym vs. RhythmAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.