Difference between famous and infamous

This is part of the difference between series.

Recently, I saw someone use infamous when they meant famous. Here’s the difference between the two.

Famous

To be famous is to be widely known. Movie stars are famous. Certain world leaders are famous. Professional athletes are famous.

Something can also be famous because of something they do. For example, a local restaurant might be famous for their pizzas baked in wood fired ovens.

Infamous

Infamous also has to do with being well known. The difference, however, is that infamous has a negative connotation. Convicted serial killers would be infamous. Outlaws would be infamous. War criminals would be infamous.

Consider these two examples:

  • Meryl Streep, a famous actor, has received more oscar nominations than any other actor.
  • Billy the Kid was an infamous outlaw, who killed 8 people, escaped prison, and rustled cattle.

Which words do you confuse? Let me know in the comments below.

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By Kim Siever

I am a copywriter and copyeditor. I blog on writing and social media tips mostly, but I sometimes throw in my thoughts about running a small business. Follow me on Twitter at @hotpepper.