a famous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a famous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone or something that is well-known or celebrated. Example: "She is a famous author whose books have been translated into multiple languages."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Name a famous person.

The New Yorker

b. a famous painter.

The New Yorker

A famous restaurateur.

The New York Times - Magazine

& a famous PR man.

The New Yorker

A famous actor was there.

The New York Times

He is a famous designer.

The New York Times

She was a famous sculptor.

The New York Times

"A famous raconteur and polymath.

Independent

And he's a famous person.

The New York Times - Arts

You'll become a famous woman".

The New Yorker

A famous case is Time.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a famous" to describe someone, provide context to explain why they are famous. This adds depth and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid simply stating someone is "a famous" person without elaborating on their achievements or contributions. Provide details that justify their fame to maintain credibility and reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a famous" primarily functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It indicates that the noun it describes is widely recognized or well-known. Ludwig AI shows numerous examples where it precedes nouns like "person", "actor", and "designer", indicating its role in attributing fame.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a famous" is a common and grammatically correct adjective phrase used to describe someone or something widely recognized. Ludwig AI's analysis reveals that it is most frequently used in news and media contexts, followed by academia and wiki sources. While generally neutral in register, it's important to provide context when using "a famous" to avoid ambiguity and enhance clarity. Related phrases include "a well-known", "a renowned", and "a celebrated", each with slight differences in nuance. Remember to avoid overusing the phrase without providing specifics to maintain reader engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a well-known

Focuses on broad familiarity rather than exceptional recognition.

a renowned

Emphasizes high reputation and respect within a specific field or among a certain group.

a celebrated

Highlights public acknowledgment and praise.

a prominent

Suggests importance and visibility, often within a particular sector or community.

a noted

Implies recognition for particular achievements or qualities.

a distinguished

Conveys a sense of honor and respect earned through accomplishments.

a legendary

Indicates a figure or event that has become part of folklore or myth, often exaggerated in importance.

an iconic

Refers to someone or something that serves as a representative symbol of a particular era, culture, or movement.

a household name

Specifically denotes someone or something that is widely recognized and familiar to most people.

a public figure

Highlights the person's presence and influence in the public sphere.

FAQs

How can I use "a famous" in a sentence?

Use "a famous" before a noun to indicate that the noun is widely known or recognized. For example, "He is "a famous scientist"" or "This is "a famous landmark"".

What words can I use instead of "a famous"?

Alternatives include "a well-known", "a renowned", "a celebrated", or "a prominent", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a famous person" or "a well-known person"?

Both are correct, but "a famous person" often implies a higher degree of public recognition and possibly some level of celebrity, whereas "a well-known person" simply suggests that they are widely recognized within a specific field or community.

What is the difference between "a famous" and "an infamous"?

"A famous" implies positive or neutral widespread recognition, while "an infamous" implies being known for negative reasons, such as scandalous behavior or notoriety.