best known

USAGE SUMMARY

"best known" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is widely known or well-recognized, especially when comparing multiple things. For example, "The Taj Mahal is one of India's best known landmarks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

The best known is Skype.

The Economist

The best known A.R.E.

The New York Times

Anthony is best known as a scorer.

The New York Times

Mr. Shatner, best known as Capt.

The New York Times - Science

Firestone was best known for her writing.

The New Yorker

The best known are the barnacles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Thailand's is perhaps best-known.

The Economist

Bahram Bayzai is the best-known.

The Economist

The best-known of these is Sarah Palin.

The Economist

London's best-known jazz club.

Forbes

Best-known is the Kingdom of Talossa.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "best known", ensure it is followed by 'for' or 'as' to clearly indicate the reason for the recognition. For example: "best known for his roles" or "best known as a painter".

Common error

Avoid using "best known" when you simply mean "best". "Best known" refers to fame or recognition, not necessarily superiority.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "best known" functions as a modifier, specifically an adjectival phrase, that describes a noun by indicating what it is most famous or recognized for. Ludwig's examples confirm that this phrase is commonly used to specify an attribute or achievement associated with a subject.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

21%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Academia

6%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "best known" is a common and grammatically correct adjectival phrase used to describe something's most recognized quality or achievement. According to Ludwig, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, maintaining a neutral register and appearing most frequently in News & Media, Science and Encyclopedias. It is crucial to distinguish its meaning from "best", as "best known" specifically relates to fame or recognition, rather than overall superiority. Using synonyms like "most famous" or "widely recognized" can provide subtle nuances depending on the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

most famous

Emphasizes fame as the primary attribute, differing slightly in nuance from widespread recognition.

widely recognized

Focuses on broad recognition, which is a more direct synonym, highlighting the extent of awareness.

renowned

Implies a high degree of respect and admiration, adding a layer of prestige not necessarily present in "best known".

celebrated

Highlights active admiration and acclaim, suggesting more active praise than simple recognition.

well-regarded

Indicates a positive assessment and esteem, changing the focus from fame to respect.

famous

A general term for being widely known, simpler and broader than "best known".

preeminent

Suggests a leading position or superior status, adding a competitive aspect to the concept.

notable

Highlights the quality of being worthy of attention, altering the emphasis from fame to significance.

leading

Implies a position of leadership or dominance in a particular field, focusing on influence.

chief

Implies a high status based on responsibilities and can have similar semantic meaning.

FAQs

How do I use "best known" in a sentence?

Use "best known" to describe someone or something that is widely recognized for a particular quality or achievement. For example, "She is "best known" for her contributions to science".

What's a good substitute for "best known"?

Alternatives include "most famous", "widely recognized", or "renowned", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the best known" or simply "best known"?

Both forms are grammatically correct. "The best known" implies a specific selection from a group, while "best known" is a more general descriptor.

What's the difference between "best known" and "well-known"?

"Best known" suggests a higher degree of fame or recognition than "well-known". Something that is "best known" is at the top of the recognition hierarchy.