A1 adjective Formal #2,602 most common 2 min read

renowned

/rɪˈnænd/

Renowned means famous and admired for a specific positive quality or achievement.

Word in 30 Seconds

  • Famous and highly respected.
  • Positive reputation for skill/achievement.
  • Often used in formal contexts.

Overview

The word 'renowned' is an adjective used to describe a person, place, or thing that is famous and admired for something specific. It carries a strong positive connotation, suggesting that the subject is not just known, but also held in high regard by many.

When used, 'renowned' implies a level of expertise, excellence, or significant contribution that has earned widespread recognition. It's often associated with individuals who have made notable achievements in fields like arts, sciences, sports, or business, or with institutions and places that are celebrated for their quality or history.

Usage Patterns

'Renowned' is generally used in more formal contexts, such as in writing, news reports, academic discussions, or formal speeches. While it can be understood in informal spoken English, it's less common than simpler synonyms like 'famous' or 'well-known' in casual conversation. Its use adds a layer of prestige and respect.

Common Contexts

In professional and academic settings, you might hear about a 'renowned professor,' a 'renowned scientist,' or a 'renowned institution.' In the arts, a 'renowned artist,' 'renowned composer,' or 'renowned theater' are common phrases. In business, a company might be 'renowned for its innovation,' or a chef might be 'renowned for their culinary skills.' Even in daily life, people might refer to a 'renowned restaurant' or a 'renowned historical landmark.' The key is that the fame is coupled with admiration and respect for a specific quality or accomplishment.

Examples

1

The architect became renowned for designing innovative and sustainable buildings.

professional

El arquitecto se hizo famoso y respetado por diseñar edificios innovadores y sostenibles.

2

Paris is renowned as a global center for fashion and art.

travel

París es reconocido como un centro mundial de moda y arte.

3

She is a renowned expert in marine biology.

academic

Ella es una experta de renombre en biología marina.

4

The restaurant is renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine.

food

El restaurante es célebre por su auténtica cocina italiana.

5

He is renowned throughout the company for his problem-solving abilities.

business

Es reconocido en toda la empresa por sus habilidades para resolver problemas.

6

The novel was written by a renowned author, making it an instant bestseller.

literature

La novela fue escrita por un autor de renombre, convirtiéndola en un éxito de ventas instantáneo.

Synonyms

famous celebrated distinguished well-known noted acclaimed

Antonyms

Common Collocations

renowned for famoso/a/o por
renowned scientist científico/a de renombre
renowned artist artista de renombre
renowned chef chef de renombre
renowned institution institución de renombre
widely renowned ampliamente reconocido/a/o

Common Phrases

renowned for its...

famoso/a/o por su...

a renowned expert

un experto/a de renombre

Often Confused With

renowned vs famous

'Famous' simply means widely known, whereas 'renowned' implies being widely known *and* highly respected or admired for a specific quality or achievement.

renowned vs infamous

'Infamous' means famous for something bad or negative, while 'renowned' is always used for positive fame and respect.

Grammar Patterns

Subject + is/was + renowned + for + [noun phrase/gerund] A renowned + [noun] [Noun phrase] is/was renowned + [prepositional phrase indicating area of renown]

How to Use It

Usage Notes

Use 'renowned' when you want to emphasize that someone or something is not just known, but also highly respected and admired for a particular skill, quality, or achievement. It suggests a level of excellence that has earned widespread positive recognition.


Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes use 'renowned' interchangeably with 'famous' without considering the added layer of respect. Also, mistaking it for 'infamous' is common, forgetting that 'renowned' carries a positive connotation.

Tips

💡

Use for Positive Fame

Reserve 'renowned' for individuals or things that are famous and genuinely admired for their excellence or achievements.

⚠️

Avoid Overuse

While powerful, using 'renowned' too often or for minor achievements can dilute its impact. Stick to truly exceptional cases.

🌍

Global Recognition

The concept of being 'renowned' often implies recognition that transcends local or national boundaries, suggesting international acclaim.

Word Origin

The word 'renowned' comes from the Old French 'renommé,' meaning 'renowned' or 'famous,' derived from 'nom' (name). It essentially means having a widely recognized name.

Cultural Context

In many cultures, achieving renown is a significant aspiration, often linked to contributing positively to society, excelling in traditional arts, or making groundbreaking discoveries.

Memory Tip

Think of 'renowned' as 're-known' – meaning known again and again because you are so good at something people keep talking about you positively!

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

'Famous' simply means widely known, while 'renowned' implies being widely known *and* highly respected or admired for something specific.

No, 'renowned' always has a positive connotation. For negative fame, words like 'infamous' are used.

It's less common in casual, everyday chat but frequently appears in more formal writing, news, and discussions about achievements.

Achievements in fields like science, art, literature, sports, or business that are recognized and admired by many people.

Yes, a place can be renowned for its beauty, history, cuisine, or any other specific quality that earns it widespread admiration.

'Renowned' is an adjective.

There isn't a direct single-word opposite, but words like 'obscure,' 'unknown,' or 'unremarkable' convey the lack of fame or recognition.

It is pronounced /rɪˈnaʊnd/.

Yes, you can say someone is 'renowned for their skill in...' or has 'renowned skill' in a particular area.

The related noun is 'renown,' which means fame or widespread acclaim.

Test Yourself

fill blank

The chef is ______ for his unique approach to fusion cuisine.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: b

'Renowned' fits best as it implies fame combined with admiration for a specific skill (cuisine).

multiple choice

What does 'renowned' mean?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: a

This option captures both the fame and the positive, respected aspect implied by 'renowned'.

sentence building

is / for / renowned / scientist / a / his / research / this

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer: This scientist is renowned for his research.

The sentence structure 'Subject + is + renowned + for + Object' is a common pattern, and the words fit logically.

Score: /3

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