illustrious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "illustrious" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone or something that is highly distinguished, famous, or well-respected, often due to achievements or contributions. Example: "The illustrious scientist received numerous awards for her groundbreaking research in genetics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Even in the less illustrious London borough of Southwark, home to the Heygate estate, the rent for a two-bedroom flat would require an income of almost £44,000.

The Guardian

"I have no doubt," wrote Mr Gwynne, confidently, "that the vast majority of the public will find it profoundly unacceptable that a convicted criminal with such disregard for British justice continues to hold such an illustrious honour".

The Guardian - Opinion

Riva is 85 and Trintignant is 81 and they both trail long, illustrious pedigrees.

The Guardian - Film

The Mikhailovsky is half the size of the Bolshoi and has always languished in the shadow of St Petersburg's older and more illustrious Mariinsky Ballet.

The Guardian

Daniel Bertoni made it 2-0 with a lovely finish in the second half after weaving his way past three defenders but El Salvador restricted the Argentinians to few chances, notably stifling Diego Maradona, and even worried their illustrious opponents a couple of times on the break.

The Guardian - Sport

This link between Japan and Scotland has an illustrious history.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In the end, Fiorentina finished fourth – above such rich and illustrious teams as Inter, Lazio and Roma.

The Guardian - Sport

Brendan Rodgers is 100% his own man and he will not hesitate to tell you so, particularly when the conversation turns to a certain illustrious Portuguese manager.

The Guardian - Sport

The cruise takes us in the wake of many illustrious explorers and pioneers - we sail down the Magellan straits, the Beagle channel - but also to reminders of just what European arrival meant.

The Guardian - Travel

From his long, illustrious Army career to his leadership at the helm of CIA, Dave has redefined what it means to serve and sacrifice for one's country.

The Guardian

After a long Google, I still don't fully understand the Order of the Bath, though I've learned it is less "illustrious" than the Order of the Garter, the Order of the Thistle and the Most Illustrious Order of St Patrick (dormant).

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "illustrious" to describe figures or institutions with a long history of achievement and respect. It adds a touch of formality and reverence to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "illustrious" in casual conversation or informal writing. It can sound pretentious or out of place if the subject matter doesn't warrant such a formal tone.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "illustrious" functions primarily to attribute a high level of distinction, fame, and respect to a noun. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage. For example, it describes "illustrious explorers" and "illustrious opponents".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

24%

Science

18%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "illustrious" is an adjective used to describe something or someone highly respected and famous, often due to significant achievements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct status and suitability for formal contexts. It's frequently found in News & Media and Business writing. Related terms include "renowned" and "distinguished". When using "illustrious", ensure the context matches its formal tone to avoid sounding pretentious. This word is best reserved for subjects with a history of excellence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

renowned

Indicates widespread fame and respect, similar to "illustrious" but perhaps slightly more common.

distinguished

Emphasizes achievement and excellence, making it a close synonym for "illustrious".

celebrated

Highlights public recognition and admiration, much like "illustrious".

famed

A more concise way of saying famous, aligning closely with the meaning of "illustrious".

notable

Focuses on being worthy of attention, a key aspect of being "illustrious".

eminent

Suggests high rank or status, reflecting the respect associated with being "illustrious".

preeminent

Implies being superior or outstanding, a stronger form of being "illustrious".

respected

Highlights the esteem and admiration someone or something receives, similar to "illustrious".

prominent

Indicates importance and visibility, aspects shared with being "illustrious".

famous

A general term for being widely known, less nuanced than "illustrious" but related.

FAQs

How can I use "illustrious" in a sentence?

You can use "illustrious" to describe someone or something with a distinguished career or reputation, such as "The "illustrious career" of the scientist spanned decades" or "The university has an "illustrious history"".

What's a good alternative to the word "illustrious"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "renowned", "distinguished", or "celebrated". These words all convey a sense of fame and respect.

Is it appropriate to describe a company as "illustrious"?

Yes, it is appropriate if the company has a long-standing reputation for excellence and significant achievements. For instance, "The "illustrious company" has been a leader in its industry for over a century".

What is the difference between "illustrious" and "famous"?

"Famous" simply means widely known, while "illustrious" implies admiration and respect due to significant accomplishments. Someone can be famous for negative reasons, but "illustrious" always carries a positive connotation.