most famous for

USAGE SUMMARY

"most famous for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to explain what something is most well-known for. For example, you could say, "The Acropolis in Athens is most famous for its iconic ancient architecture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Evening Session was most famous for uncovering new music.

Independent

Most famous for: Playing hairdresser Maria Connor in Coronation Street.

Independent

The reform movement is most famous for tests and assessments.

The New York Times

Yet the hospital became most famous for something different.

The Economist

ALBERT EINSTEIN is most famous for the theory of relativity.

The Economist

Leonard is most famous for the quality of his prose.

The New Yorker

She's most famous for the tent, of course.

The Guardian - Arts

It is now most famous for making him famous.

The Guardian - Books

These days, Mr. Dennett, 71, is most famous for his blunt-talking atheist activism.

The New York Times - Books

He's a hired killer enhanced by cybernetic implants, most famous for his trademark, glowing red eye.

Independent

Annacone is most famous for shepherding Pete Sampras through the prime of his career.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "most famous for", ensure that the reason you're citing is genuinely the most well-known aspect of the subject, not just a personal opinion.

Common error

Avoid using "most famous for" when describing something relatively obscure or known only within a niche audience. Overstating fame can undermine your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "most famous for" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It serves to specify the primary attribute or achievement that makes someone or something widely recognized. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

17%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "most famous for" is a versatile and commonly used expression to denote the primary reason for someone or something's recognition. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and commonly used. Analysis reveals that it functions as an adjectival phrase, primarily used in news and media, science, and wiki contexts. Alternatives include "best known for", "renowned for", and "notable for". When using "most famous for", ensure that the cited reason is genuinely the most well-known aspect and avoid overstating fame for obscure subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

best known for

Focuses on the attribute for which something is primarily recognized, similar to "most famous for".

renowned for

Implies a high degree of respect and admiration for the attribute.

notable for

Highlights a significant or remarkable attribute.

celebrated for

Suggests widespread acclaim and recognition.

widely recognized for

Emphasizes the broad awareness of a particular attribute.

chiefly known for

Indicates the main reason for someone or something's fame.

primarily known for

Similar to 'chiefly known for', highlighting the principal attribute.

distinguished for

Implies a unique and exceptional quality.

remembered for

Highlights how someone or something is likely to be recalled.

popular for

Emphasizes widespread liking or appeal.

FAQs

How to use "most famous for" in a sentence?

Use "most famous for" to highlight the primary reason someone or something is well-known. For example, "Albert Einstein is "most famous for" the theory of relativity."

What can I say instead of "most famous for"?

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

Which is correct, "most famous for" or "famous for"?

"Most famous for" implies the single most well-known aspect, while "famous for" indicates a general reason for fame. Use "most famous for" when you want to specify the defining characteristic.

What's the difference between "most famous for" and "well-known for"?

"Most famous for" suggests a higher degree of recognition and prominence compared to "well-known for". "Most famous for" implies that something is universally acknowledged, while "well-known for" indicates a more general level of recognition.