unknown quantity

Học thuật
Thân thiện
unknown quantity

The new team member is an unknown quantity for the project.

Definition

Noun 1. A variable whose values are solutions of an equation: In mathematics, an "unknown quantity" is a symbol (often a letter like x or y) representing a number that is not yet determined but can be found by solving an equation. 2. A factor in a given situation whose bearing and importance is not apparent: A person or thing whose abilities, characteristics, or effects are not yet known or understood, making them unpredictable.

Usage Examples
  • Mathematical Context:
    • In the equation 2x + 5 = 11, 'x' is the unknown quantity.
    • The scientist treated the missing data point as an unknown quantity in her model.
  • Figurative/General Context:
    • The new coach is still an unknown quantity; we don't know if he can lead the team to victory.
    • The economic impact of the new policy remains an unknown quantity.
Advanced Usage
  • "To be/remain an unknown quantity": This is the most common idiomatic usage, describing a person or element whose potential or nature is untested and therefore uncertain.
    • The candidate's stance on foreign policy is still an unknown quantity to most voters.
Variants and Related Words
  • Unknown (adj/n): Not known; a person or thing that is unknown.
    • The virus came from an unknown source.
    • She was a complete unknown before winning the championship.
Synonyms
  • Variable: (In mathematics) a symbol for an unknown number.
  • Uncertainty: Something that is not known or definite.
  • Wild card: An unpredictable or unforeseeable factor.
  • Enigma: A person or thing that is mysterious or difficult to understand.
Related Idioms
  • A question mark: Used to describe something unknown or uncertain.
    • The team's performance this season is a big question mark.
  • X factor: A variable with an unknown or significant impact.
    • The team's new striker has the X factor that could win them the game.
unknown quantity

The new team member is an unknown quantity for the project.

Noun
  1. a variable whose values are solutions of an equation
  2. a factor in a given situation whose bearing and importance is not apparent; he's still an unknown quantity"
    • I don't know what the new man will do

Từ đồng nghĩa