著名

chōmei
adjectiveIntermediate
formal

Famous or well-known, often referring to people, places, or things that have gained significant recognition or reputation.

この作家は世界的に著名です。

This author is world-famous.

その大学はその分野で著名です。

That university is renowned in its field.

💡

Often used to describe individuals, institutions, or works that have achieved notable recognition.

Collocations

著名な人物famous person著名な学者renowned scholar著名な建築家famous architect

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

一躍有名になるphrase
to become famous overnight
名を上げるphrase
to make a name for oneself

💡Pro Tip

Formal vs. Informal Usage

'著名' is more formal and often used in writing or formal speech, while '有名' is more common in everyday conversation.

Gold Rule

Precision in Context

Use '著名' when referring to well-established fame or recognition, especially in professional or academic contexts.

📖Word Origin

Composed of '著' (meaning 'to write' or 'to record') and '名' (meaning 'name' or 'fame'), originally referring to things that are recorded in writing and thus become known.

📝Usage Notes

While '有名' and '著名' are often interchangeable, '著名' tends to carry a more formal and established connotation, often used in written or formal contexts.

Word Breakdown

to write or record
root
+
name or fame
root
和英辞典