Words / A2

wel-NOHN/ˌwelˈnəʊn/

Well-known means many people know the person or thing: a well-known actor, well-known in the town, a well-known brand. Famous is a close cousin, often stronger. Unknown is the opposite. Hyphenate well-known before a noun. Do not write well known without the hyphen in this adjective use.

Meaning

Known by a lot of people.

Examples

• “She is a well-known singer in this town.”
• “It is a well-known fact that the bridge closes in storms.”
• “A well-known chef opened a café by the harbour.”

Good to know

a well-known actor / brand (hyphen before a noun). Cousin: famous. Opposite: unknown.

Near in meaning

famous

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