Confusable pair · C1
Notable or notorious?
Notable means worth noticing, and it is neutral or positive. Notorious means famous for something bad, and it is always negative. A notable lawyer is distinguished; a notorious lawyer is one you have heard of for the wrong reasons. Renowned and infamous are the stronger versions of each.
Which word, and why
- notable
worth noticing — neutral or positive
Important or interesting enough to be remarked on.
a notable exception · notable achievements · notably absent
- notorious
famous for something bad
Well known for a bad quality or deed.
notorious for delays · a notorious case · notoriously difficult
- renowned
famous and admired
Widely respected for a particular quality.
renowned for her research · world-renowned
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The junction is for accidents and has been for twenty years.