better known for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "better known for" is correct and commonly used in written English.
Example: Jane Austen is better known for her romantic novels such as "Pride and Prejudice" and "Sense and Sensibility" than for her lesser-known works like "Lady Susan" and "The Watsons".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Sports

Food

Books

Science

Travel

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Iona has been better known for basketball.

The New York Times - Sports

The first two are better known, for good reason.

The New York Times - Arts

Barbara Trapido is, of course, better known for her novels.

The Guardian - Books

(11) Kitty Winn, better known for her work on stage.

The Guardian - Film

Are you better known for the novels than your poetry?

The Guardian - Books

Blythe is better known for his brilliance front of house.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Jacobs is better known for his measurements, not his accomplishments.

The New York Times - Sports

"She was everywhere and should be better known for it".

The New York Times - Arts

Although Lord Snowdon is perhaps better known for his portraits….

The New Yorker

Its men are better known for rape and pillage.

The Economist

But he is better known for his work on humans.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "better known for", ensure you clearly contrast it with what the subject is less known for to provide context and emphasize the primary association. For example, "While he dabbled in painting, he is better known for his sculptures."

Common error

Avoid using "better known for" without establishing a clear comparison. Saying "She is better known for her singing" lacks impact if it's not contrasted with another activity or aspect of her career. Make sure the contrast is evident to enhance the phrase's effectiveness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better known for" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate the quality or characteristic for which something or someone is more famous or recognized. Ludwig AI's analysis shows it's a common way to specify an area of prominence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Arts

13%

Sports

6%

Less common in

Food

5%

Books

5%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "better known for" is a versatile and commonly used expression to highlight the primary attribute or achievement for which someone or something is recognized. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, from news and media to arts and sports. When using "better known for", it's important to clearly contrast it with what the subject is less known for to provide context and enhance its impact. Alternatives like "more famous for" or "primarily known for" can be used depending on the specific nuance. Ensure to avoid the common mistake of omitting the contrast to make the phrase most effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more famous for

Focuses on fame rather than general recognition.

more recognized for

Emphasizes recognition, suggesting wider acknowledgment.

primarily known for

Highlights the main area of recognition.

largely recognized for

Indicates a substantial degree of recognition.

widely celebrated for

Suggests public praise and acclaim.

distinguished for

Implies a notable difference or excellence.

renowned for

Emphasizes reputation and high regard.

notable for

Highlights the significance of a particular attribute.

remembered for

Focuses on how someone or something will be recalled.

associated with

Indicates a common connection or link.

FAQs

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

Use "better known for" to highlight someone or something's most recognized attribute or accomplishment. For example, "The actor is "better known for" his dramatic roles than his comedic ones."

What's a good alternative to "better known for"?

Alternatives include "primarily known for", "more famous for", or "largely recognized for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "better know for" instead of "better known for"?

No, the correct phrase is "better known for". "Known" is the past participle of "know" and is required to form the passive construction. Using "know" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "better known for" and "also known for"?

"Better known for" highlights the most prominent attribute, while "also known for" simply adds another attribute without implying it's the most significant. For instance, someone could be "better known for" their novels but "also known for" their poetry.