terra incognita
Say it: TEH-ruh in-KOG-nih-tuh /ˌtɛrə ɪnˈkɒɡnɪtə/ · noun phrase
What “terra incognita” means
Unknown land or a subject you haven't explored.
More precisely: Unknown territory; a subject or area nobody has explored.
When to use it
Use it for unfamiliar territory, literally or as a metaphor for a new subject. It sounds literary and slightly adventurous.
Memory trick
Latin for “unknown land”: imagine reaching the blank edge of a map.
Similar words
unknown territory, uncharted waters, the unknown
Where it comes from
Latin, 'unknown land', once used on maps.
Quick check
You've never cooked before, and the equipment and techniques in a professional kitchen are completely unfamiliar. This is…
familiar ground or terra incognita?
Show the answer
terra incognita
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