An unknown quantity Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A person or thing whose value, importance, or effect is not yet known; something or someone unpredictable.
Usage & Nuances
This is mainly used in formal or analytical contexts (business, sports, politics) to describe unpredictability in performance or outcome. It's often applied to people whose abilities haven't been tested or situations with unpredictable results.
Example Sentences
The new player is an unknown quantity on the team.
basic
This technology is still an unknown quantity to us.
basic
She is an unknown quantity in the competition.
basic
Investing in that market is an unknown quantity—it could go either way.
natural
He’s an unknown quantity in politics, so people aren’t sure what to expect.
natural
With so many changes, the future remains an unknown quantity.
natural