In everyday conversations and formal writing, certain words might sound unusual or even old-fashioned, yet they carry specific meanings and serve particular grammatical roles. One such word that often raises questions is ‘unbeknownst.’ People sometimes wonder what type of word it is and how it fits within a sentence. Is it a preposition, an adverb, or something else entirely? Understanding the classification and proper usage of ‘unbeknownst’ helps improve both spoken and written English, especially for learners aiming to enrich their vocabulary. Let’s take a closer look at this word, its origins, its grammatical category, and how to use it correctly.
Understanding the Word ‘Unbeknownst’
Definition and Meaning
‘Unbeknownst’ means ‘without the knowledge of someone.’ It is used to describe situations where something happens without a person being aware of it. The word typically appears in phrases like ‘unbeknownst to her’ or ‘unbeknownst to them.’
Examples in Sentences
- Unbeknownst to John, his coworkers were planning a surprise party.
- She had, unbeknownst to everyone else, already submitted her resignation.
- Unbeknownst to the audience, the actor had forgotten his lines.
Is ‘Unbeknownst’ a Preposition?
No, ‘unbeknownst’ is not a preposition. A preposition is a word that shows the relationship between a noun or pronoun and another word in a sentence. Common prepositions include ‘in,’ ‘on,’ ‘at,’ ‘by,’ and ‘under.’ ‘Unbeknownst’ does not fit into this category.
Instead, ‘unbeknownst’ is classified as anadjective. It is used to modify a noun or pronoun by describing the state of being unaware. Although it often functions in a phrase that feels similar to how a prepositional phrase works (‘unbeknownst to him’), the word itself does not act as a preposition.
The Role of Adjectives
Adjectives describe or modify nouns. They can express qualities such as size, color, quantity, or in the case of ‘unbeknownst’ states of awareness. Since ‘unbeknownst’ is always followed by a phrase like ‘to someone,’ it modifies the noun in that phrase indirectly by indicating that the noun lacks awareness.
In the phrase ‘Unbeknownst to Sarah, the dog had escaped,’ the adjective ‘unbeknownst’ is describing the state of Sarah, who is unaware of the situation. It does not show a spatial or time relationship between elements, which is what a preposition would typically do.
Comparison with Prepositions
How Prepositions Function
To better understand why ‘unbeknownst’ is not a preposition, let’s briefly review what prepositions do:
- Indicate location:on the table, in the house
- Show direction:toward the park, into the building
- Express time:before dinner, after midnight
- Explain relationships:with friends, about the issue
‘Unbeknownst’ does none of these. It does not establish any physical, temporal, or logical relationship. Instead, it simply indicates that someone is unaware of something, which confirms that it operates as an adjective.
Alternative Forms and Usage
‘Unbeknown’ vs. ‘Unbeknownst’
There is another form of the word: ‘unbeknown.’ It has the same meaning as ‘unbeknownst’ and is used in a nearly identical way. For example:
- Unbeknown to the staff, the company had already been sold.
Both forms are correct, although ‘unbeknownst’ is more common in American English, while ‘unbeknown’ might appear more frequently in British English.
Register and Tone
It’s worth noting that ‘unbeknownst’ carries a slightly formal or literary tone. It’s not a word commonly used in casual speech. Instead, people might say, ‘She didn’t know that…’ or ‘Without her knowing…’ in everyday conversation. However, ‘unbeknownst’ adds variety and elegance to written language, making it a good choice in storytelling or more formal narratives.
Practical Tips for Using ‘Unbeknownst’
When to Use It
- When writing fiction or creative nonfiction
- To add stylistic flair to formal writing
- When trying to express that someone is unaware of an event or action
When to Avoid It
- In technical or scientific writing where clarity is paramount
- In casual conversations where simpler alternatives exist
- If the tone of the piece is very modern and informal
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using It as a Preposition
One of the most frequent errors is treating ‘unbeknownst’ as a preposition. Since it is usually followed by ‘to someone,’ it might feel like a preposition, but grammatically, it is still an adjective. It is modifying a noun or pronoun, not linking elements of a sentence.
Overusing in Writing
Because ‘unbeknownst’ sounds sophisticated, it can be tempting to use it repeatedly. However, excessive use might make your writing sound overly formal or archaic. Use it sparingly for best effect.
Synonyms and Simpler Alternatives
More Common Expressions
If you feel ‘unbeknownst’ might sound too formal, consider using simpler expressions such as:
- Without knowing
- Unknown to
- She didn’t realize
- He had no idea
These alternatives are often more suitable in casual or conversational contexts.
Summary of Key Points
- ‘Unbeknownst’ is a real word with formal usage.
- It is not a preposition, but rather an adjective.
- It means without someone’s knowledge.
- It is followed by a phrase like to him or to her.
- It can enhance writing when used appropriately but should not be overused.
Although ‘unbeknownst’ might seem like an old-fashioned or mysterious word, it has a clear grammatical role and specific meaning. Understanding that it functions as an adjective and not as a preposition can help improve both your writing and your comprehension of advanced English vocabulary. When used thoughtfully, ‘unbeknownst’ can add a touch of depth and elegance to your sentences. Just remember to use it in the right context, and you’ll be able to express subtle ideas with precision and style.