未知数
Meanings
2
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
unknown quantity; uncertain factor
Figurative use for something whose outcome or nature is not yet known; often used with だ or の before nouns.
Sales of the new product are still an unknown quantity.
His ability is an uncertain factor, but I have high hopes.
Usage patterns
- 〈事〉は未知数だ~ is still an unknown/uncertain factor
His true ability is still an unknown quantity.
- 〈事〉の未知数を求めるto solve for the unknown (in an equation)
Solve for the unknown in this equation.
- 〈事〉かどうかは未知数だwhether ~ will happen is uncertain
Whether this plan will succeed is still uncertain.