expression, godan verb (-ru)
better to be infamous than unknown
Proverb meaning that even a bad reputation is better than being completely unnoticed. Often used to justify seeking attention or fame at any cost.
悪名は無名に勝るというから、批判されても気にしない。
They say it's better to be infamous than unknown, so I don't mind being criticized.
彼は悪名は無名に勝ると考えて、あえて炎上商法を選んだ。
Thinking it's better to be infamous than unknown, he deliberately chose a controversial marketing strategy.