illustrious for

USAGE SUMMARY

"illustrious for" is an acceptable phrase when used in written English.
For example, "He was an illustrious figure for his unwavering commitment to racial equality."

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

As he spoke of the "extraordinary sacrifices" made by all the UK's armed forces, the Prime Minister also singled out the crew of the HMS Illustrious for recognition.

Independent

They can buy a good double bed with a new mattress for about £100, a reconditioned Bosch washing machine for just £150, or something less illustrious for £80.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Five of her aircraft were transferred to Illustrious for an attack on 11 November on Taranto (Operation Judgement), whilst Eagle remained in Alexandria.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

She spent years living between NYC and California (where she founded UC San Diego's MFA program), but during her time in New York she served as Artistic Director of The Poetry Project, the illustrious for-poets-by-poets institution founded in St. Mark's Church.

Vice

Word got around that each band's colour represented a different sex act, from the PG (yellow for hugs and light pink for love bites) to the more X-rated (brown for anal sex, black for full sex and the illustrious gold for full sex plus everything else).

Vice

"Inishmaan" is the third – and for me, the most satisfying — production from the newly formed Michael Grandage Company, a troupe notable for its illustrious leading players.

The New York Times

There was an illustrious precedent for putting muscles before acting talent in casting mythological heroes.

The Guardian

Botstein apparently realized early in his tenure that he couldn't compete with more illustrious institutions for star Ph.D.s.

The New Yorker

Orsini Family, one of the oldest, most illustrious, and for centuries most powerful of the Roman princely families.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Now Death has gained a most illustrious client, for Pratchett himself has died, aged 66, after suffering from early-onset Alzheimer's disease.

The Guardian - Books

Fashion and beauty aside, the magazine had surprisingly illustrious writers: for years it held a fiction contest that discovered fledgling novelists including Sylvia Plath and Mona Simpson.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "illustrious for" is acceptable, consider whether a more common phrase like "renowned for" or "famous for" might improve clarity and flow. Ensure that "illustrious" accurately reflects the subject's level of distinction and not just general notability.

Common error

Avoid using "illustrious" in casual or informal settings where a simpler adjective would be more appropriate. Save it for situations where you genuinely want to convey a sense of great achievement or historical significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "illustrious for" functions as an adjectival modifier, specifically describing the quality or reason that makes someone or something notably outstanding or celebrated. Ludwig's AI and real-world examples confirm its use in attributing distinction.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

16%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "illustrious for" is an acceptable but relatively rare phrase used to describe the reason behind someone or something's fame or distinction. Ludwig's AI confirms its grammatical correctness, although it suggests that more common alternatives like "renowned for" or "famous for" might be preferable in some contexts. The phrase is most frequently found in news and media sources, with a neutral formality level. While grammatically sound, careful consideration of the context and audience is advised to ensure the most effective communication. Always evaluate if the situation requires something like "distinguished for" which implies a higher level of achievement and sophistication or stick to phrases like "famous for" and "celebrated for".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

renowned for

A more common and direct synonym, emphasizing widespread fame and respect.

famous for

A simpler and more general alternative, indicating wide recognition.

celebrated for

Highlights the act of public praise and honor.

notable for

Focuses on specific characteristics that make something worthy of attention.

distinguished for

Implies a higher level of achievement and sophistication.

esteemed for

Highlights being held in high regard and respect.

admired for

Focuses on the positive feelings and high opinion others have.

venerated for

Implies a deep respect and reverence, often associated with age or tradition.

respected for

Indicates being valued and treated with consideration due to certain qualities.

acclaimed for

Suggests public praise, especially from critics or experts.

FAQs

What does "illustrious for" mean?

The phrase "illustrious for" describes someone or something that is well-known, respected, and admired because of a particular quality or achievement.

How can I use "illustrious for" in a sentence?

You can use "illustrious for" to highlight the reason someone or something is famous or respected. For example, "The scientist was illustrious for her groundbreaking research."

What are some alternatives to "illustrious for"?

You can use alternatives like "renowned for", "famous for", or "notable for" depending on the context.

Is "illustrious for" always the best choice, or are there times when another phrase is more appropriate?

While "illustrious for" is grammatically correct, phrases like "renowned for" or "famous for" may be more suitable in less formal contexts. Consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.