Word
well known
Definition
compound. someone or something that many people know about or recognize.
compound. an adjectival compound describing a person, place, or thing that is widely recognized or famous within a specific context.
Examples
“He is a well known actor in this country.”
“The restaurant is well known for its excellent seafood and friendly service.”
“Although the author is well known among academic circles, her work remains largely undiscovered by the general public.”
Examples
simple
“He is a well known actor in this country.”
contextual
“The restaurant is well known for its excellent seafood and friendly service.”
complex
“Although the author is well known among academic circles, her work remains largely undiscovered by the general public.”
Usage
use a hyphen (well-known) when it comes before a noun, but no hyphen when it follows a verb.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'famous' to show that 'well known' can be neutral or specific to a small group, whereas 'famous' usually implies global or very broad recognition.
Pitfall
a well known singer
a well-known singer
when used before a noun as a modifier, the phrase requires a hyphen to link the two words.