Translation guide
Describes someone or something widely known and praised for excellence. In Japanese, this is expressed through adjectives, verbs, and set phrases that convey fame, renown, and high acclaim.
To describe a person, artistic work, or event that is widely recognized and admired for its quality.
The most common and versatile word for 'famous' or 'well-known'. It can be used for people, places, things, and events. While it doesn't inherently imply praise, context often makes it clear that the fame is positive.
He is a celebrated author.
This festival is celebrated worldwide.
A more formal and literary term meaning 'illustrious' or 'renowned'. It carries a stronger sense of high esteem and is often used for scholars, artists, or historical figures.
A celebrated scholar gave a lecture.
Literally 'name-high', this adjective means 'renowned' or 'famous'. It is slightly more literary than 有名な and often implies a long-standing reputation.
I went to an exhibition of a celebrated painter.
Means 'notable' or 'eminent'. It is often used in formal contexts to describe people who are well-known in their field, such as academics, critics, or public figures.
A celebrated critic praised the book highly.
To describe an accomplishment or body of work that has received widespread acclaim and recognition.
Means 'highly praised' or 'acclaimed'. It is the past tense of 絶賛する (to praise highly) and is commonly used for works of art, performances, or products that have received rave reviews.
His latest work was celebrated.
I watched a celebrated movie.
Literally 'highly evaluated', this phrase means 'highly regarded' or 'well-received'. It is slightly more formal and can be used for both artistic and professional achievements.
Means 'gained fame/renown'. It emphasizes the acquisition of a celebrated status, often through a specific achievement.
He became celebrated with that novel.
To describe a special day, event, or custom that is marked by ceremonies, festivities, or rituals.
The most common verb for 'celebrate' in the sense of observing a holiday or happy event. It can be used for birthdays, anniversaries, festivals, and achievements.
In Japan, we celebrate the New Year.
Means 'to commemorate'. It is used for marking historical events, anniversaries, or the memory of someone or something. More formal than 祝う.
A noun meaning 'national holiday' or 'public holiday'. It refers to a day that is officially celebrated, such as Culture Day or Constitution Day.
有名 (ゆうめい) is the general word for 'famous' and can be used in most situations. 高名 (こうめい) is more literary and implies high esteem, often used for respected figures. 著名 (ちょめい) is formal and emphasizes being well-known in a specific field or among the public. For 'celebrated' in the sense of highly praised, 有名 is often sufficient, but 高名 or 著名 add a nuance of distinction.
The verb 祝う (いわう) means 'to celebrate' an event or occasion, not to praise a person. If you want to say someone is celebrated (praised), use adjectives like 有名な or phrases like 絶賛された.
Her research was celebrated internationally.
We held a party to celebrate his promotion.
A ceremony was held to commemorate the celebrated end of the war.
今日は祝日です。
Today is a celebrated national holiday.
(Incorrect: He is a celebrated author.)