gained widespread recognition

USAGE SUMMARY

"gained widespread recognition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that has become well-known or celebrated. For example, "The artist's painting gained widespread recognition after it was exhibited in a gallery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Although his work predated that of Timothy Leary, he never gained widespread recognition for it.

The New York Times

His atomic theory eventually began to prove its worth, and its author gained widespread recognition.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Graves gained widespread recognition in 1967, when he took the lead role in the TV spy drama Mission: Impossible.

Independent

There has always been queer onscreen expression, overt or covert, but it was only in the 90s that an LGBT film movement gained widespread recognition.

The Guardian - Film

IELTS has gained widespread recognition as a useful predictor of ability to cope with language in an English-medium academic, training, professional or work-related environment.

The Guardian

She gained widespread recognition for her early results in hyperbolic geometry, and her most recent work constitutes a major advance in dynamical systems.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Unlike the Beats headphone brand, which has worldwide recognition, Beats Music has failed to gain widespread recognition.

The Guardian - Tech

Pakistani writers have excelled abroad, yet struggled to gain widespread recognition at home.

The New York Times

Mr. Cocke rarely published research papers, but that did little to prevent him from gaining widespread recognition in the field.

The New York Times

The 19th-century painter Juan Manuel Blanes, whose works depict historical events, was the first Uruguayan artist to gain widespread recognition.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The Enclave, in particular, has been a much-needed hit for G.M., attracting younger customers and gaining widespread recognition through its association with the professional golfer Tiger Woods.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "gained widespread recognition" to indicate that something or someone has become broadly known or appreciated, particularly after a period of relative obscurity or limited awareness.

Common error

Avoid using "gained widespread recognition" if the subject only received limited or localized attention. Ensure the recognition truly extends to a broad audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gained widespread recognition" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a clause to indicate that a subject has achieved broad acknowledgement or fame. It signifies that someone or something has become widely known or celebrated, as illustrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

24%

Science

18%

Less common in

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gained widespread recognition" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote the attainment of broad acknowledgment or fame. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for formal and informal contexts, particularly in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Science. When using the phrase, ensure that the level of recognition is genuinely widespread. Alternatives include "achieved broad recognition" or "became widely known", depending on the desired nuance. While generally implying positive recognition, it's crucial to distinguish it from terms like gained notoriety, which carry a negative connotation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

achieved broad recognition

Focuses on the attainment of recognition without specifying its extent beyond "broad".

obtained extensive recognition

Emphasizes the scope and reach of the recognition received.

garnered substantial acclaim

Highlights the positive and enthusiastic nature of the recognition.

earned considerable fame

Stresses that the recognition was deserved or worked for.

rose to prominence

Focuses on the ascent to a position of importance or fame.

became widely known

Highlights the increase in public awareness and familiarity.

attained popular acclaim

Underscores the recognition coming from the general public.

secured widespread acknowledgement

Emphasizes the act of being acknowledged by a large audience.

established a firm reputation

Highlights the building of a strong and lasting reputation.

emerged into the limelight

Focuses on the sudden and public nature of gaining recognition.

FAQs

How can I use "gained widespread recognition" in a sentence?

You can use "gained widespread recognition" to describe when a person, idea, or thing becomes widely known or celebrated. For example, "The artist's innovative techniques "gained widespread recognition" after her exhibition".

What are some alternatives to "gained widespread recognition"?

Alternatives include "achieved broad recognition", "became widely known", or "rose to prominence". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "gained widespread recognition" in formal writing?

Yes, "gained widespread recognition" is suitable for formal writing. It is a clear and professional way to describe something becoming well-known.

What's the difference between "gained widespread recognition" and "gained notoriety"?

"Gained widespread recognition" generally implies positive or neutral acknowledgment, while "gained notoriety" suggests fame for negative or controversial reasons.