unknown quantity

NOUN

dark horse

Synonyms

STRONGEST

also-ran long shot sleeper underdog

WEAK

hundred-to-one shot improbability little chance little opportunity outside chance outside shot poor bet poor lookout poor possibility poor prognosis poor prospect slim chance small chance stalking horse unexpected winner unknown unlikelihood unlikely winner upsetter

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The 46-year-old Dutch coach built a fine reputation with successes at Feyenoord, but was an unknown quantity to many Liverpool supporters and untested in the Premier League.

From BBC • Aug. 15, 2025

Humphries, but the veteran is of late something of an unknown quantity.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 20, 2025

Is Levi a professional wildcard—some unknown quantity who requires vetting by the president-elect himself, or someone who demands that his every former employer be contacted by the president-elect himself?

From Slate • Jan. 9, 2025

Why is the letter x used for an unknown quantity in algebra?

From Salon • Jul. 29, 2024

Jacqui is an unknown quantity in an unmarked bottle, and we are currently at her mercy.

From "Dry" by Neal Shusterman and Jarrod Shusterman

unknown quantity

Example Sentences

Related Words