French translation of unbeknown is 
à l’insu

Meaning of "unbeknown" in English

The word "unbeknown" is an adjective used to describe something happening or being done without the knowledge of a particular person or people. It implies a lack of awareness or information, often creating a scenario where events unfold without someone's realization. This term is typically used in the context of actions or situations that occur without one party's understanding, which may lead to surprises or unintended consequences. The term is somewhat formal and less commonly used in everyday conversation but remains relevant in storytelling and formal narratives.

Meaning of "à l’insu" in French

The French expression "à l’insu" translates to "unbeknown" in English and carries a similar meaning. It refers to actions or events carried out without the awareness of someone involved. This phrase is typically used to indicate that something is happening secretly or without someone's notification, leading to a lack of knowledge about the situation. It can be used in various contexts to describe scenarios in literature, personal encounters, or formal discussions where discretion or secrecy plays a key role.

Pronunciation of "unbeknown" in English

Phonetic Transcription: /ˌʌnbɪˈnoʊn/

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "unbeknown" remains relatively consistent across different regions, with no significant dialectical variations. It is pronounced with emphasis on the third syllable, resulting in a clear and concise articulation that is understood across various English-speaking areas.

Pronunciation of "à l’insu" in French

Phonetic Transcription: /a lɛ̃sy/

Pronunciation Variations: The phrase "à l’insu" is pronounced consistently across French-speaking regions. While accents may slightly modify the sound, the pronunciation remains largely unchanged, maintaining clarity and comprehension regardless of the speaker's geographical location.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. Unbeknown to him, the party was a surprise celebration for his birthday.
   (À son insu, la fête était une célébration surprise pour son anniversaire.)

2. The decision was made unbeknown to the committee members.
   (La décision a été prise à l'insu des membres du comité.)

3. Unbeknown to her, the letter had already been sent to her parents.
   (À son insu, la lettre avait déjà été envoyée à ses parents.)

4. He planted the flowers in the garden, unbeknown to his wife.
   (Il a planté les fleurs dans le jardin, à l'insu de sa femme.)

5. The plan unfolded unbeknown to the authorities.
   (Le plan s'est déroulé à l'insu des autorités.)

6. Unbeknown to the villagers, a storm was forming nearby.
   (À l'insu des villageois, une tempête se formait à proximité.)

7. She completed the project unbeknown to her colleagues.
   (Elle a terminé le projet à l'insu de ses collègues.)

8. Unbeknown to many, the artist had been living in the town for years.
   (À l'insu de beaucoup, l'artiste vivait dans la ville depuis des années.)

9. The funds were transferred, unbeknown to the investors.
   (Les fonds ont été transférés à l'insu des investisseurs.)

10. Unbeknown to the passengers, the flight was delayed.
    (À l'insu des passagers, le vol était retardé.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "unbeknown" in English

Synonyms: unknown, unnoticed, unperceived, unseen, hidden, secret, covert, undisclosed, concealed, unacknowledged.

Antonyms: known, aware, informed, perceived, acknowledged, recognized, disclosed, visible.

Similar Words: unaware, ignorant, oblivious, unconscious, incognizant, neglected, overlooked, unapparent, unnoticed, unforeseen.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "à l’insu" in French

Synonyms: sans savoir, discrètement, secrètement, clandestinement, incognito, subrepticement.

Antonyms: consciemment, ouvertement, visiblement, délibérément.

Similar Words: à l'insu, en cachette, à la dérobée, à l'abri des regards, hors de vue, en secret.

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