Translation guide
How to express that someone or something is famous, well-known, or has a big reputation in Japanese.
Referring to a person who is widely known, a star, or a celebrity.
The standard word for a famous person or celebrity. Neutral and widely used.
He is a celebrity.
I met that famous person.
Literally 'big fish'. Refers to a big shot, an important or influential person in a field. Often used in business, politics, or entertainment.
He's a big name in the industry.
Loanword from English 'star'. Used for celebrities, especially in entertainment.
She is a movie star.
A more formal term for a well-known person, often used in news or official contexts.
Many notable figures attended the ceremony.
Describing a company, brand, or product that is widely recognized.
The most straightforward way to say 'famous brand'. 有名 (yuumei) means 'famous'.
This is a bag from a famous brand.
Refers to a major corporation or a leading company in an industry.
He works for a big-name company.
Means 'first-class' or 'top-notch'. Used for high-status brands or institutions.
He dined at a big-name restaurant.
Expressing that someone has a great reputation or is highly esteemed in a field.
An adjective meaning 'famous' or 'renowned'. Often used in literary or formal contexts.
He is a renowned author.
Means 'reputed' or 'well-known' (for something). Often used with a specific quality.
That shop is a big-name ramen place.
A formal term for 'famous' or 'illustrious', often used for scholars or artists.
The English phrase 'big name' is idiomatic. Do not translate it literally as 大きい名前 (ookii namae). That would be nonsensical in Japanese. Use the appropriate terms above depending on context.
有名人 (yuumeijin) is a general term for any famous person. 大物 (oomono) implies not just fame but also influence and power, like a 'big shot' or 'heavyweight' in a particular field.
高名な学者が講演を行った。
A big-name scholar gave a lecture.