Master confusing words with ease
Unbeknown vs. Unbeknownst
Unbeknown
/ˌʌnbɪˈnəʊn/Examples:
She went to the party unbeknown to her parents.There was a surprise waiting, unbeknown to the guests.Unbeknown to us, the plan was already in action.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Unbeknownst
Examples:
Unbeknownst to him, they planned a surprise party.She slipped away, unbeknownst to the bustling crowd.Unbeknownst to many, the artist lived in seclusion.
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
Ways to tell them apart:
- Both words mean without the knowledge of someone and are often followed by to.
- Unbeknownst is more commonly used in modern English than unbeknown, especially in American English.
- Some grammar purists might argue unbeknown is the more correct form, as it is the older usage.
- Unbeknownst contains an additional st' at the end, which might be easier to use in informal settings, adding a soft tone to the word.
- Remember, both are perfectly acceptable to use, but context and audience could inform which one might be more appropriate.
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