Understanding ‘Notorious’: Boost Your IELTS Vocabulary
Learn the meaning, usage, and common mistakes associated with the word ‘notorious’. This video explains how to correctly use this powerful adjective to describe negative fame, helping you improve your vocabulary for the IELTS exam and aim for that 8.0 band score.
Imagine a person whose name alone sends shivers down your spine. That’s the power of being notorious.
Today, we’re exploring this impactful word that can elevate your IELTS score to that coveted band eight point zero.
Word type: Notorious is an adjective, used to describe people, actions, or things that are widely and unfavorably known.
Meaning: When we say someone or something is notorious, we mean they are famous or well-known for a negative reason, typically involving bad behavior or qualities.
It’s important to note that notorious always carries a negative connotation, unlike its neutral cousin, famous.
Word history: The word notorious entered the English language in the sixteenth century. It comes from the Medieval Latin notorius, meaning well-known or manifest, which itself derives from the Latin notus, meaning known.
Over time, it evolved to specifically denote negative fame.
Antonyms: Some antonyms for notorious include reputable, honorable, esteemed, and praiseworthy.
These words all carry positive connotations, in contrast to the negative implications of notorious.
Synonyms:
Synonyms for notorious include infamous, disreputable, ill-famed, and scandalous. Each of these words shares the sense of negative public knowledge or opinion.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s look at how to use notorious in context. Here are three examples: The notorious criminal finally faced justice after years on the run.
The restaurant became notorious for its terrible service and subpar food. The company’s notorious disregard for environmental regulations led to severe penalties.
Common errors in use: A common mistake is confusing notorious with famous. Remember, notorious always implies a negative reputation.
For instance, it would be incorrect to say, The scientist became notorious for her groundbreaking research.
Instead, you should say, The scientist became famous for her groundbreaking research. Another error is using notorious with positive adjectives.
For example, The notorious kind-hearted philanthropist is incorrect. Notorious and kind-hearted contradict each other.
To wrap up, mastering the word notorious can significantly enhance your vocabulary for the IELTS exam.
Remember its negative connotation, use it to describe unfavorable fame, and you’ll be well on your way to showcasing band eight point zero level vocabulary.
Keep practicing with words like these, and watch your language skills soar.
