Translation guide
The English word "renowned" means famous and admired for a particular quality or achievement. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through several adjectives and phrases that convey high reputation, fame, or prestige. The most common and versatile word is 有名 (ゆうめい), but other options like 名高い (なだかい) and 高名 (こうめい) carry a more literary or formal tone. This guide helps learners choose the right expression based on context and nuance.
To describe a person, place, or thing that is widely known and recognized, often positively.
The most common and neutral word for "famous" or "renowned." It can be used for people, places, things, and events. It is a な-adjective.
To emphasize that someone or something is renowned for a particular skill, characteristic, or achievement.
The most natural way to say "renowned for ~." Attach a noun or noun phrase before で有名.
この地域は美しい景色で有名です。
This region is renowned for its beautiful scenery.
有名 is the everyday word for "famous" and can be used in almost any context. 名高い is more literary and often carries a sense of historical or traditional renown. 高名 is formal and respectful, typically used for people of high achievement. In casual conversation, stick with 有名.
English sometimes uses "renowned" as a past participle (e.g., "He is renowned for..."). In Japanese, do not try to translate this as a verb form. Instead, use adjectives like 有名な or patterns like 〜で知られている.
彼女はロボット工学の著名な専門家です。
She is a renowned expert in robotics.
Using 著名 emphasizes her eminence in the field.
その都市は活気あるナイトライフで有名です。
The city is renowned for its vibrant nightlife.
で有名 is the most natural pattern for "renowned for."
彼は世界的に有名な作家です。
He is a world-renowned author.
このレストランは地元で有名です。
This restaurant is renowned locally.
A slightly more literary and formal word meaning "renowned" or "celebrated." It is an い-adjective and often used in written language or formal speech.
彼は名高い科学者だ。
He is a renowned scientist.
この寺は歴史的な名高さで知られている。
This temple is known for its historical renown.
A formal noun or な-adjective meaning "illustrious" or "renowned." It is often used in respectful contexts to describe scholars, artists, or people of high standing.
高名な先生にお会いできて光栄です。
I am honored to meet such a renowned teacher.
彼は高名な画家として知られている。
He is known as a renowned painter.
A formal word meaning "noted" or "eminent." It is often used in news or academic contexts to describe people of distinction.
著名な経済学者が講演を行った。
A renowned economist gave a lecture.
A phrase meaning "having fame/renown." It is less common as a direct modifier and more often used in descriptive clauses.
名声のある俳優がその映画に出演した。
A renowned actor appeared in the movie.
She is renowned for her kind personality.
A slightly more formal pattern meaning "is known for ~." It can be used interchangeably with 〜で有名 but sounds more written or objective.
この町は温泉で知られている。
This town is renowned for its hot springs.
A literary pattern meaning "renowned for ~." It is less common in everyday speech.
彼は勇敢さの名高い戦士だった。
He was a warrior renowned for his bravery.