What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
well-known
Example
The restaurant is well-known for its delicious pizza. [well-known: adjective]
Example
She is a well-known actress who has starred in many popular movies. [well-known: adjective]
renowned
Example
The museum is renowned for its impressive collection of art. [renowned: adjective]
Example
He is a renowned scientist who has made groundbreaking discoveries in his field. [renowned: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Well-known is more commonly used in everyday language than renowned. Well-known is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while renowned is less common and is typically reserved for more formal or sophisticated situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between well-known and renowned?
Renowned is more formal and sophisticated than well-known. It is often used in academic or professional settings to describe people, places, or things that are highly respected or esteemed within a particular community or field. Well-known, on the other hand, is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
