Translation guide
To be widely known or recognized. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with 有名 (ゆうめい) or 知られる (しられる). The choice depends on formality, nuance, and whether you are describing a person, place, or thing.
He is famous.
This place is famous for its food.
To say that someone or something is widely known or popular.
The most common and neutral way to say 'is famous'. Used for people, places, things, etc.
He is a famous singer.
This restaurant is very famous.
Literally 'is known'. Slightly more formal or objective than 有名. Often used in written or descriptive contexts.
He is known worldwide.
A more literary or formal term meaning 'renowned' or 'famous'. Often used in written language.
To say that someone or something is famous for a particular quality, product, or achievement.
The standard pattern: [thing]で有名だ. Use で to mark what the subject is famous for.
To express the process of becoming famous or gaining recognition.
The most common way to say 'become famous'. 有名 is a na-adjective, so use になる.
To emphasize that someone or something is famous internationally.
The standard way to say 'world-famous'. 世界的に means 'globally' or 'worldwide'.
名高い芸術家
a renowned artist
This town is famous for its hot springs.
He became famous for that invention.
Similar to 〜で有名, but slightly more formal. Often used in factual descriptions.
Japan is known for anime.
She became famous at a young age.
Literally 'raise one's name'. Means to make a name for oneself or gain fame, often through effort.
He made a name for himself with that work.
He is a world-famous scientist.
This fact is widely known.
In English, 'famous' and 'popular' can overlap, but in Japanese 有名 (famous) and 人気がある (popular) are distinct. Use 人気がある for things that are currently liked or trendy, not necessarily widely known.
This singer is famous, but not very popular.