What is the difference between infamous and notorious?

Definitions

infamous

- Describing someone or something that is well-known for a negative reason or action.

- Referring to a person or thing that has a bad reputation or is widely known for being disgraceful.

- Talking about an event or action that is considered shameful or dishonorable.

notorious

- Describing someone or something that is widely known for a negative reason or action.

- Referring to a person or thing that has a bad reputation or is famous for being scandalous.

- Talking about an event or action that is considered disgraceful or infamous.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words describe someone or something with a negative reputation.
• 2. Both words are used to describe people, things, or events.
• 3. Both words have a negative connotation.
• 4. Both words are often used interchangeably.

What is the difference?

• 1. Usage: Infamous is used to describe someone or something that is widely known for a negative reason or action. Notorious is used to describe someone or something that is widely known for being scandalous or disgraceful.
• 2. Intensity: Infamous implies a strong negative reputation, while notorious can be used to describe someone or something with a less severe negative reputation.
• 3. Scope: Infamous can be used to describe a specific action or event, while notorious is often used to describe a person's overall reputation.
• 4. Connotation: Infamous emphasizes the disgraceful nature of the person or thing being described, while notorious emphasizes the widespread knowledge of their negative reputation.

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Remember this!

Infamous and notorious are synonyms that both describe someone or something with a negative reputation. However, infamous is used to describe someone or something that is widely known for a negative reason or action, while notorious is used to describe someone or something that is widely known for being scandalous or disgraceful. Infamous implies a stronger negative reputation than notorious, and it can be used to describe a specific action or event, while notorious is often used to describe a person's overall reputation.