ENGLISH
REFERENCE

unaware

adj.
US //ˌənəˈwɛɹ// UK //ˌʌnəwˈeə// un·aware
  1. 1 not knowing a fact (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    not knowing that something exists or is happening.

    lacking knowledge or information about a specific situation or fact; often followed by the preposition 'of'.

    Example

    She was completely unaware of the surprise party her friends were planning.

    Example

    The investors remained largely unaware of the internal structural issues until the company's annual report was leaked to the press.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the pattern 'unaware of something' or 'unaware that...'.

    Pitfall
    He was unaware about the new rules.
    He was unaware of the new rules.

    Use the preposition 'of' after unaware when introducing the thing the person does not know.

  2. 2 not noticing surroundings (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    not noticing what is happening around you because you are busy or distracted.

    failing to perceive or notice sensory stimuli or environmental changes; oblivious.

    Example

    He walked across the street, totally unaware of the car coming toward him.

    Example

    Deeply absorbed in her research, she seemed entirely unaware of the rising noise levels in the library around her.

Origin

From un- + aware.

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