zyu3 ming4著名
Jyutpingzyu3 ming4
Yalejyu mìhng
Definition
Famous; well-known; known by many people.
writtenpeopledescriptions
How it's used
While 著名 is widely understood, it carries a formal or literary tone that makes it sound slightly stiff in casual conversation. In everyday speech, Hong Kongers prefer using 出名 to describe people or places that are well-known. Reserve 著名 for written contexts, news reports, or when introducing someone with a formal title.
Examples
He is a famous painter.
This restaurant is so famous, you have to queue to eat there.
Related words
Common mistake
Do not use 著名 to describe yourself or your own work, as it sounds arrogant and unnatural. Use 出名 instead if you need to describe something popular in a casual setting.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- TonesCantonese has six tones, and the tones can change in certain grammatical contexts. Learn the six tones and the rules for tone change.
- Time and datesClock time, days of the week, months, and years. The patterns you need to make plans and talk about when things happen.
- Modal verbsHow to say can, will, may, should, must, and want. The core modal verbs of Cantonese and the differences that trip up beginners.
