What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inconnu
Example
The new student was an inconnu to the rest of the class. [inconnu: noun]
Example
The cause of the problem remained inconnu despite several attempts to identify it. [inconnu: adjective]
unidentified
Example
The police found an unidentified object at the crime scene. [unidentified: adjective]
Example
The witness saw an unidentified man leaving the building. [unidentified: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unidentified is more commonly used in English than inconnu, especially in formal contexts such as scientific research or law enforcement.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between inconnu and unidentified?
Unidentified is a more formal word than inconnu, as it is often used in technical or professional settings where precision and clarity are important.