The adjective unknown means unknown and ignored. It usually refers to something that is not yet known or is yet to be discovered. Thus, an explorer can enter an unknown territory, inasmuch as it is an area about which there is no information.
A word of the formal language
The term unknown is generally used in formal communication contexts. Instead, in common situations, synonyms such as unknown or ignored are used. Thus, this word must be understood as a cultured form of expression.
Although it is common to use unknown to refer to unexplored places, it can also be used in reference to people whose identity remains hidden (for example, the unknown creator of a literary creation) or in relation to a dimension that goes beyond what is known (for example, the unknown realms of the human mind).
Associated connotations
The use of the adjective unknown has some connotations. On the one hand, it indicates that what is unknown is a mystery and a certain enigma. Do not forget that the term comes from the Latin ignotus, which precisely means unknown. In this sense, everything unknown generates a dose of uncertainty.
Human knowledge seeks the certainty and security of its approaches. However, in the search for the truth there is a limit, something that remains unknown. This implies that the rating of unknown is linked to a certain concern and a fear of the unknown.
The unknown goes beyond the known. And to refer to this sphere we use prefixes as meta, as happens with terms such as metaphysics, metalanguage or metacognition. And what is beyond the evidence becomes "uncharted territory."
Unknown dimensions of today
Talking about unknown dimensions of the present supposes referring to everything that today is not within our reach.
The enigmas to be solved are very diverse. Thus, we know that there are totally unknown aspects in the universe and the same happens with the brain and mind of humans or with the knowledge of nature.
If we look back, history teaches us that what was unknown in its day was finally discovered and, on the other hand, it also reminds us that there will always be something that remains unknown and that is presented as a new challenge for human beings.
Photos: iStock, Alex Potemkin / deimagine
