Inklingo

How to Say "renown" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “renown” is “fama” — use 'fama' when referring to general public recognition or notoriety, often achieved quickly or as a result of a specific event.

English → Spanish

fama

FAH-mahˈfa.ma

nounA2formal
Use 'fama' when referring to general public recognition or notoriety, often achieved quickly or as a result of a specific event.
A person standing center stage under a bright spotlight, receiving enthusiastic applause from an unseen audience, symbolizing their famous status.

Examples

La cantante saltó a la fama después de ganar el concurso.

The singer shot to fame after winning the contest.

Mucha gente busca la fama, pero pocos la encuentran.

Many people seek fame, but few find it.

A Feminine Noun

'Fama' is always a feminine word, even though it ends in 'a'. Always use the feminine article 'la' or 'una' with it.

Using the wrong article

Mistake: “El fama”

Correction: La fama. Remember, 'fama' is feminine.

prestigio

pres-TEE-hyopɾesˈti.xjo

nounB1formal
Choose 'prestigio' to describe a high level of respect and admiration earned over time, often associated with institutions or established individuals.
A noble figure wearing a golden crown and a rich purple cloak standing on a podium while a crowd cheers.

Examples

Esa universidad tiene mucho prestigio.

That university has a lot of prestige.

Ganar el premio nacional aumentó su prestigio como escritor.

Winning the national award increased his standing as a writer.

La empresa perdió su prestigio después del escándalo.

The company lost its reputation after the scandal.

A standard masculine noun

Prestigio is a masculine noun. This means you should always use masculine markers like 'el' or 'un' and pair it with masculine adjectives like 'mucho' or 'bueno'.

Describing with 'de'

To say something has prestige, you often use the structure 'de prestigio'. For example, 'un médico de prestigio' means 'a prestigious doctor'.

Using it as an adjective

Mistake: “Él es muy prestigio.”

Correction: Él tiene mucho prestigio (or 'Él es muy prestigioso').

gloria

GLO-riahˈɡlo.ɾja

nounB1formal
Use 'gloria' when 'renown' implies great honor and public acclaim, often linked to significant achievements or heroic deeds.
A person standing on a small pedestal, illuminated by a golden spotlight, wearing a laurel wreath, symbolizing public honor.

Examples

El atleta ganó la medalla, trayendo gloria a su país.

The athlete won the medal, bringing glory to his country.

La gloria de Roma antigua sigue fascinando a los historiadores.

The glory of ancient Rome continues to fascinate historians.

Always Feminine

Even though it ends in '-a,' remember that 'gloria' is always a feminine noun, so you use 'la gloria' or 'una gloria'.

celebridad

seh-leh-bree-DAHDseleβɾiˈðað

nounB2formal
Opt for 'celebridad' when 'renown' refers specifically to the state of being famous or a famous person, emphasizing their public status.
A golden trophy shaped like a star sitting on a pedestal under a bright spotlight.

Examples

El escritor alcanzó la celebridad a una edad temprana.

The writer achieved fame at an early age.

La celebridad de sus obras perdura hasta hoy.

The renown of his works lasts until today.

Abstract Concept

In this context, 'celebridad' refers to the idea of being famous rather than a physical person.

Fama vs. Prestigio

Learners often confuse 'fama' (general fame, often sudden) with 'prestigio' (earned respect and admiration). While someone with 'prestigio' usually also has 'fama', 'fama' doesn't automatically imply 'prestigio'. Think of a reality TV star having 'fama' but perhaps not 'prestigio'.

Related Translations

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