1.
celebrity; famous person; public figure
A well-known or famous person. Used broadly for anyone with public recognition, from entertainers and athletes to politicians and historical figures.
あの人は有名人らしい。
That person seems to be a celebrity.
有名人にサインをもらった。
I got an autograph from a celebrity.
この町は多くの有名人を輩出したことで知られている。
This town is known for having produced many famous people.
USAGE:
有名人 is a neutral, general term for any well-known person. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 有名人の私生活 (a celebrity's private life)
- 地元の有名人 (a local celebrity)
- 有名人になる (to become famous)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 著名人: a more formal synonym, often used in written contexts
- 芸能人: specifically an entertainer or show business personality
- セレブ: a loanword from "celebrity," often implying wealth and glamour