Renowned: Definition, Synonyms, and Usage
renowned – Definition and Part of Speech
The word “renowned” is an adjective used to describe something or someone that is well-known for excellence or notability in a particular field. It suggests a level of fame or reputation achieved through significant accomplishments or qualities.
- Part of Speech: Adjective
- Grammatical Forms: The primary form is the present participle/adjective “renowned.” While it does not change grammatically like verbs, it functions to describe nouns in various contexts (e.g., renowned author, a renowned achievement).
Core Synonyms
Below is a table listing synonyms for “renowned” along with brief definitions, example sentences, and applicable styles or registers:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Famous | Widely known by the public; often implies media attention. | “The famous artist’s new exhibition is a must-see.” | Informal/Formal |
| Celebrated | Known and honored for notable achievements or qualities. | “She’s a celebrated scientist with multiple awards.” | Formal/Academic |
| Esteemed | Respected and held in high regard by peers. | “An esteemed professor delivered the keynote speech.” | Formal/Professional |
| Illustrious | Distinguished and notable, often due to past achievements. | “His illustrious career spanned over five decades.” | Formal/Historical |
| Notable | Worthy of attention or notice; known for something specific. | “A notable figure in the tech industry gave a TED Talk.” | Casual/Formal |
| Legendary | Famous to the extent of being beyond fact, often part of lore. | “The legendary explorer charted unknown territories.” | Informal/Creative |
Usage Notes
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Famous: Best used when referring to someone or something widely recognized by a large audience, regardless of context (e.g., entertainment, sports). It’s versatile across informal and formal settings.
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Celebrated: Suitable for contexts where recognition is linked with achievements or contributions that are honored. Frequently found in academic papers and professional environments.
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Esteemed: Ideal when respect or high regard within a specific community or field is emphasized. Often used in professional communications, such as letters of recommendation or speeches.
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Illustrious: Most appropriate for historical contexts or to describe someone with a distinguished past. It carries connotations of lasting impact and achievement.
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Notable: Useful across various registers when pointing out something that stands out due to its significance or uniqueness but doesn’t imply the same level of fame as “famous.”
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Legendary: Best for creative writing or informal contexts, where an element of myth, exaggeration, or significant cultural impact is implied. It conveys a sense of enduring fame.
Common Pitfalls
A common confusion arises with “notable,” which may be mistakenly used to imply the same level of renown as “famous.” While both suggest recognition, “famous” implies broader public awareness, whereas “notable” indicates specific significance or distinction within certain circles. Additionally, while “legendary” often suggests a mix of reality and myth, using it for everyday contexts may lead to exaggeration.
Final Recap
In summary, the key synonyms for “renowned” include famous, celebrated, esteemed, illustrious, notable, and legendary. Each carries its own nuance:
- Famous: Broad public recognition.
- Celebrated: Honored achievements.
- Esteemed: High regard in a professional context.
- Illustrious: Historical distinction.
- Notable: Specific significance.
- Legendary: Mythic or cultural impact.
To enhance vocabulary and understanding, practice using these words by creating sentences or discussing them in conversations. This will help solidify their meanings and appropriate contexts for use.