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insu

without the knowledge (of)

noun an-SÜ Rare
Grammar & Structure Particles

Usage Note

Insu only ever appears in the fixed phrase à l'insu de (without the knowledge of) or the reflexive à mon/ton/son insu (without my/your/his knowing). It is never used as a standalone noun with an article. Understanding this frozen structure is key: à l'insu de tous means 'without anyone knowing', not 'in ignorance of everyone'.

Examples

"Il l'a fait à l'insu de tous."

Natural Translation

He did it without anyone knowing.

Literal Translation

He did it to the unknowing of all.

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