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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
Known to mankind
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
"known to mankind" is a correct and usable phrase in written English
You can use it to refer to something that is widely known or famous, particularly among humans. For example: The discovery of electricity is one of the most important advances known to mankind.
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Science
Encyclopedias
Wiki
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
60 human-written examples
Comments: "This is the greasiest crust known to mankind.
News & Media
Every element known to mankind, in virtually infinite amounts.
News & Media
It is a cheap and thus one of the oldest building materials known to mankind.
Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the most common and even fatal infectious diseases known to mankind.
Science
BTX is the most potent, naturally occurring toxin known to mankind.
Science
We will develop, build and purchase the best equipment known to mankind.
News & Media
Is there any less natural form of socializing known to mankind?
News & Media
It is one of the most devastating diseases known to mankind".
News & Media
"The sea kayak is one of the most versatile boats ever known to mankind," he said.
News & Media
Taxol® (generic name paclitaxel) represents one of the most clinically valuable natural products known to mankind in the recent past.
Science
Another firm, Green Street Advisors, recently called suburban office property the "worst real estate business known to mankind".
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
✓ Best practice
Use "known to mankind" to emphasize the impact or relevance of something to the entire human species, particularly when discussing shared experiences, discoveries, or challenges.
⚠ Common error
Avoid using "known to mankind" in casual conversations or informal writing; opt for simpler alternatives like "everyone knows" or "well-known" to maintain a natural tone.
Linguistic Context
The phrase "known to mankind" functions as a post-modifier, adding descriptive detail to a noun. According to Ludwig, this is a perfectly usable phrase. It indicates something that is recognized, experienced, or understood by humans collectively.
Expression frequency: Very common
✓ Frequent in
News & Media
43%
Science
35%
Wiki
8%
⚠ Less common in
Encyclopedias
3%
Formal & Business
2%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "known to mankind" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression, as also stated by Ludwig AI. It serves to emphasize that something is widely recognized, experienced, or understood by humans collectively. While generally appropriate for formal and neutral contexts, it should be used sparingly in informal settings. Alternative phrases such as "known to humanity" can offer a more inclusive alternative, while phrases like "common knowledge" provide simpler options for casual use. When employing "known to mankind", it's essential to consider the intended audience and the desired level of formality to ensure effective communication.
Alternative expressions
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
known to humanity
Direct synonym, replacing "mankind" with "humanity" for broader inclusivity.
known to the human race
Replaces "mankind" with "the human race" for similar meaning, slightly more formal.
common knowledge
Focuses on the widespread understanding of something, implying it's generally known.
widely recognized
Emphasizes the broad acknowledgement of something's existence or importance.
universally acknowledged
Highlights the near-complete agreement or awareness of something.
globally understood
Focuses on international recognition or comprehension.
More alternative expressions(6)
FAQs
How can I use "known to mankind" in a sentence?
You can use "known to mankind" to describe things like discoveries, diseases or natural resources. For example, "The printing press was one of the most important inventions "known to mankind"."
What's a more inclusive alternative to "known to mankind"?
To be more inclusive, you can use "known to humanity" instead, which avoids the gendered term "mankind".
When is it appropriate to use the phrase "known to mankind"?
It is appropriate to use ""known to mankind"" in formal writing or when emphasizing the impact on all of humanity. However, avoid it in informal contexts where it may sound overly dramatic.
Which is correct, "known to mankind" or "known by mankind"?
"Known to mankind" is the correct and more common phrasing. "Known by mankind" is less frequently used and can sound awkward.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
81%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested