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notorio

no-TO-ryo/noˈtoɾjo/

“notorio” means “obvious” in Spanish (when something is clearly visible or known).

obvious, well-known

Also: evident, notorious
A bright red apple sitting alone on a plain white table under a spotlight.

📝 In Action

Hubo un cambio notorio en su actitud después de las vacaciones.

B2

There was an obvious change in his attitude after the vacation.

Es un hecho notorio que la ciudad ha crecido mucho.

B2

It is a well-known fact that the city has grown a lot.

La falta de personal es notoria en este hospital.

C1

The lack of staff is evident in this hospital.

Word Connections

Synonyms

Antonyms

Common Collocations

  • hecho notorio – well-known fact
  • notoria mejoría – noticeable improvement
  • de forma notoria – in a clear/obvious way

Translate to Spanish

Words that translate to "notorio" in Spanish:

evident→notorious→obvious→well-known→

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: notorio

Question 1 of 3

Which sentence correctly describes a 'notable difference' between two things?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
notoriamente(notoriously/obviously) — Adverb
notoriedad(notoriety/fame) — Noun
notar(to notice) — Verb
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

From the Latin word 'notorius,' which comes from 'notus' (known). It shares the same root as the English word 'note' or 'notable.'

First recorded: 15th century

Cognates (Related words)

English: notoriousFrench: notoireItalian: notorio

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use 'notorio' for a person?

You can, but it sounds very formal. Usually, it describes facts, changes, or situations rather than people. If a person is famous, 'famoso' is much more natural.

Is it a 'false friend'?

Partiallly. While both the Spanish and English words come from 'known,' the English 'notorious' evolved to mean 'famous for something bad.' The Spanish 'notorio' stayed neutral, meaning 'clearly known'.

What is the difference between 'notorio' and 'obvio'?

'Obvio' is used in casual conversation (e.g., 'It's obvious he likes her'). 'Notorio' is more common in professional or serious writing (e.g., 'The improvement was obvious').