better known

USAGE SUMMARY

"better known" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate someone is more famous or widely recognized. For example, "Albert Einstein was a scientist who is better known for his theories of relativity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Frum is much better known.

The New Yorker

Constitution, better known as Old Ironsides.

The New Yorker

Ulyanov, better known by his pseudonym Lenin.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Colba F. Gucker, better known as Chief.

The New Yorker

She's much better known here".

The Guardian

He should be better known.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Occasionally, better-known artists surprise.

The New York Times - Arts

The better-known cases involve large companies.

The New York Times - Tech

But in between, better-known faces appeared.

The New York Times

Another of Peshawar's better-known exiles, Cmdr.

The New York Times

Many supermarkets stock better-known brands.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "better known", ensure you're specifying what the subject is known for. This provides context and clarity for the reader. For example, "She is "better known" for her novels than her poetry."

Common error

Avoid using "better known" without a clear comparison. If it's unclear what the subject is "better known" than, the phrase loses its impact and can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better known" functions as an adjective phrase, typically used to modify a noun or pronoun. It indicates that the subject is more widely or favorably recognized compared to something else. As Ludwig AI explains, it denotes increased familiarity or recognition.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "better known" is a versatile adjective phrase used to indicate that a subject is more widely recognized compared to something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, especially in news and media. While generally neutral in register, careful consideration should be given to the specific context to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity. For alternatives, consider phrases like "more widely recognized" or "more familiar" for similar effects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

better recognized

Similar to "better known" but stresses the act of recognition.

more widely recognized

Focuses on broader recognition rather than just being 'known'.

widely known

A simpler alternative focusing on the breadth of knowledge.

more familiar

Highlights the degree of acquaintance with something.

more renowned

Emphasizes a higher degree of fame or respect.

more established

Suggests a longer history and greater acceptance.

more prominent

Indicates greater visibility or importance.

more popular

Highlights widespread liking or approval.

more celebrated

Suggests active praise and acknowledgement.

more notable

Emphasizes the importance or significance of something.

FAQs

How can I use "better known" in a sentence?

Use "better known" to indicate that someone or something is more famous or recognized for a particular reason. For example, "He is "better known for his role" in the movie than for his earlier stage work".

What's a more formal alternative to "better known"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "more widely recognized" or "more established" instead of "better known" to convey a similar meaning with a heightened sense of professionalism.

How does "better known" differ from "well-known"?

"Well-known" simply means widely recognized, while "better known" implies a comparison. Using "better known" suggests that the subject is more recognized in comparison to something else.

Is it correct to say "best known" instead of "better known"?

While both are grammatically correct, "best known" implies the subject is the most famous or recognized among a group, whereas "better known" indicates a higher degree of recognition compared to something specific. Choose depending on the context.