notorious
/nou'tɔ:riəs/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Known widely and usually unfavorably: Describes a person, place, or thing that is famous or well-known, but typically for bad reasons, negative qualities, or scandalous behavior.
Usage
The word "notorious" is used to indicate widespread public recognition, almost always with a negative or disapproving connotation. It emphasizes that the fame is due to something considered bad, shocking, or undesirable.
Examples
- Adjective:
- The area was notorious for its high crime rate.
- He became a notorious figure after the scandal.
- The company is notorious for its poor treatment of employees.
Advanced Usage
- "notorious for (something)": This is the most common construction, specifying the reason for the bad reputation.
- The restaurant is notorious for its slow service.
- Used in a historical or factual context, it can describe something widely acknowledged as true, though often still negative.
- It is a notorious fact that the system is flawed.
Variants and Related Words
- Notoriety (noun): The state of being famous for something bad.
- He gained notoriety for his outrageous statements.
Synonyms
- Infamous: Very similar in meaning, often used interchangeably with "notorious."
- Disreputable: Lacking respectability, but may not imply the same level of widespread fame.
- Scandalous: Causing public outrage or shock.
Antonyms
- Renowned: Known and admired by many people.
- Esteemed: Held in high respect.
- Reputable: Having a good reputation.
Idioms and Phrases
- A notorious fact: Something that is widely known and accepted to be true, often an unwelcome truth.
- It is a notorious fact that traffic is terrible during rush hour.
Adjective
- known widely and usually unfavorably;
- a notorious gangster
- the tenderloin district was notorious for vice
- the infamous Benedict Arnold