'Not Known From Adam' Idiom Meaning and Examples

The phrase “not known from Adam” is a slang expression used to describe someone who is not well-known or not at all familiar to the speaker. It is similar to saying the person is “unknown” or “an unfamiliar face”.

'Not Known From Adam' meaning and sample sentences

The phrase likely originates from the bible, in which Adam was the first man and the father of the human race. The phrase implies that the person is so unknown that even Adam, the father of all mankind, does not recognize them.

This idiom can be used to describe someone who is unfamiliar or unknown to the speaker. For example, if you are meeting someone for the first time, you could say, “I don’t know him from Adam.”

This phrase can also be used to describe someone who is not well-known in their field of work or who is not widely recognized. For example, you could say, “She’s not known from Adam in the music industry.”

Additionally, the phrase can be used to show that someone is not well known or is not very important. For example, you could say, “He’s not known from Adam in the business world.”

Take a look at these examples:

He was a stranger to the group, not known from Adam.
She was a complete mystery, not known from Adam.
He arrived without warning, not known from Adam.
The arrival of the new student was unexpected, not known from Adam.
His presence came as a complete surprise, not known from Adam.
She showed up out of nowhere, not known from Adam.
His identity was unknown, not known from Adam.
Her origins were a complete mystery, not known from Adam.
He appeared without warning, not known from Adam.
Her entire story was a blank page, not known from Adam.

This idiom should not be used in a negative or derogatory manner. It is best used in a casual conversation and should not be used to insult someone or belittle their accomplishments.

Additionally, the phrase should not be used if the speaker is aware that the person is well-known or is familiar to them. In such a situation, it is better to use a more appropriate phrase, such as “I know him” or “I’ve heard of her.”

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