Translation guide
This guide covers how to express that someone or something is well-known in Japanese, from common adjectives to nuanced phrases for fame, recognition, and notoriety.
To say that a person, place, or thing is widely known or famous.
The most common and versatile word for 'famous' or 'well-known'. Can be used for people, places, things, and events.
He is a well-known singer.
This restaurant is very well-known.
Literally 'is known'. Often used with an adverb like よく (well) or 広く (widely) to mean 'well-known'. More descriptive than 有名.
This author is widely known.
His name is well-known.
A more literary or formal term for 'famous' or 'renowned'. Often used in written language or formal speech.
a renowned tourist spot
To indicate that someone or something is known for a particular quality, skill, or deed.
Use で after a noun to say 'famous for ~'. Very common and natural.
This town is famous for its hot springs.
She became well-known for that invention.
A more descriptive way to say 'known for ~'. Often used in writing or formal contexts.
To express that someone or something is well-known in a negative way.
To emphasize that someone or something is known by almost everyone.
有名 is an adjective meaning 'famous' and is the most common choice. 知られている is a verb phrase meaning 'is known' and often sounds more descriptive or formal. Use 有名 for general fame, and 知られている when you want to emphasize the fact of being known, especially with an adverb like よく or 広く.
This shop is famous.
This shop is well-known locally.
Direct translations like 良く知られている are grammatically possible but less natural than 有名 or よく知られている. Stick to the options provided for natural Japanese.
He is known for his environmental activism.
That company is well-known for the wrong reasons.