uncharted territory

American  

[uhn-chahr-tid ter-i-tawr-ee] / ˌʌnˈtʃɑr tɪd ˈtɛr ɪˌtɔr i /

noun

1. an unfamiliar area or situation, especially one that has or seems to have no maps or guidelines.

   At that time, the American West was uncharted territory.

   We suddenly found ourselves in uncharted territory as the parents of a medically fragile child.

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Etymology

Origin of uncharted territory

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

“We are now entering uncharted territory in the Department of Justice’s enforcement practices,” said Greg Nicolaysen, who represented Raygoza at trial.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 6, 2026

"We have entered a new field of research here, uncharted territory where many exciting discoveries are likely to be made," says Varykhalov.

From Science Daily • Feb. 16, 2026

"We're in uncharted territory here," Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans said.

From Barron's • Jan. 26, 2026

Brutal December storms have pushed Leavenworth’s economy into uncharted territory during its normally busiest season.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 21, 2025

Some took off from the gate running, yet others took baby steps through uncharted territory.

From "The Freedom Writers Diary" by The Freedom Writers