An unknown quantity
noun
Something or someone whose nature, value, or significance cannot be determined or is not yet known.
As a newcomer to the team, he is an unknown quantity, no one knows what to expect from him.
Often appears as...
- remain an unknown quantity
- be an unknown quantity
Usage tips
Idiomatic
noun
Something or someone whose nature, value, or significance cannot be determined or is not yet known.
As a newcomer to the team, he is an unknown quantity, no one knows what to expect from him.
Often appears as...
- remain an unknown quantity
- be an unknown quantity
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Newcomer Unpredictability
Use it to describe a new member whose effects or actions are unpredictable due to lack of information.
Our team's new recruit is an unknown quantity; we hope he'll perform well.
Pro Tip 2/3Variable Situations
It can refer to a situation where outcomes are unpredictable because variables are not yet understood.
With so many variables, the project's success is an unknown quantity.
Pro Tip 3/3Mystery Factor
Highlight a specific characteristic or factor that is mysterious and yet to be discovered.
In this equation, the role of the new enzyme remains an unknown quantity.
Pro Tip 1/3Newcomer Unpredictability
Use it to describe a new member whose effects or actions are unpredictable due to lack of information.
Our team's new recruit is an unknown quantity; we hope he'll perform well.
Pro Tip 2/3Variable Situations
It can refer to a situation where outcomes are unpredictable because variables are not yet understood.
With so many variables, the project's success is an unknown quantity.
Pro Tip 3/3Mystery Factor
Highlight a specific characteristic or factor that is mysterious and yet to be discovered.
In this equation, the role of the new enzyme remains an unknown quantity.
Pro Tip 1/3Newcomer Unpredictability
Use it to describe a new member whose effects or actions are unpredictable due to lack of information.
Our team's new recruit is an unknown quantity; we hope he'll perform well.
Pro Tip 2/3Variable Situations
It can refer to a situation where outcomes are unpredictable because variables are not yet understood.
With so many variables, the project's success is an unknown quantity.
Pro Tip 3/3Mystery Factor
Highlight a specific characteristic or factor that is mysterious and yet to be discovered.
In this equation, the role of the new enzyme remains an unknown quantity.
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