What is fame? Pronunciation and usage in English

fame means . Learn how to pronounce and use fame through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of fame

famenoun

/feɪm/
Definition & pronunciation of fame

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "fame" in English. Here's a breakdown and a few ways to say it:

The most common and generally accepted pronunciation is:

  • /feɪm/ (rhymes with "game" or "name")

Let's break that down further:

  • "fe": Sounds like the "fe" in "fed" or "pet."
  • "a": A short "a" sound, like in "cat" or "hat."
  • "m": A typical "m" sound, as in "mom."

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the sounds:

  • IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /feɪm/
    • /f/ - Voiced "f" sound (like in "fan")
    • /eɪ/ - A diphthong (a combination of two vowel sounds) – it sounds like the "a" in "day" or "say."
    • /m/ – The "m" sound.

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable ("-ame").
  • Listen: The best way to really get it is to hear it spoken. Here are some resources:
    • Google Search: Search for "how to pronounce fame" on Google and listen to the audio examples.
    • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/fame/ – This website has native speakers pronounce the word.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "fame"?

Usage and examples with the word fame in English

Let's break down how to use the word "fame" in English. It's a rich word with a lot of nuances!

1. Basic Definition:

  • Fame means a widely known reputation or celebrity. It’s the state of being famous. Think of it as a widespread recognition and admiration.

2. Parts of Speech & How to Use It:

  • Noun: This is the most common usage. It refers to the thing – the reputation, the celebrity status.
    • Examples:
      • "She achieved fame as a singer." (She became famous as a singer.)
      • “Hollywood is built on fame.” (Hollywood revolves around the idea of fame.)
      • "He longed for the fame and fortune of a movie star." (He desired the fame and wealth associated with being a movie star.)
  • Verb: It can also be used as a verb, meaning to become famous.
    • Examples:
      • "The athlete famed for his incredible speed." (The athlete became famous for his speed.)
      • "The new band is rapidly faming across the country." (The band is quickly gaining popularity and becoming famous.)

3. Different Shades of Meaning & Usage:

  • Positive Fame: This is the most common and generally positive sense. It implies recognition for talent, achievement, or contribution.
    • "The artist gained fame for her innovative paintings."
  • Negative/Dark Fame: Sometimes "fame" can carry a negative connotation, referring to notoriety for something bad – a criminal, a scandal, etc.
    • "He became famed for his crimes." (He became known for his criminal activity.) – This is less common than using "notorious."
  • Brief Fame: Fame can be fleeting.
    • "She had a brief period of fame after winning the competition."
  • Historical Fame: Referring to well-known figures from the past.
    • "Shakespeare is one of the most famed playwrights in history."

4. Phrases & Related Words:

  • Fame and fortune: This phrase suggests the rewards (wealth, status) that often come with fame.
  • To chase fame: To pursue fame relentlessly, often to the detriment of other things.
  • Fame-hungry: Someone who desperately desires fame.
  • Make a name for yourself: Similar to 'fame,' but more about building a reputation.
  • Become well-known: A more neutral way to say someone is gaining recognition.

5. Examples in Sentences (Combining Different Uses):

  • "After winning the lottery, she quickly famed for her generosity." (Verb – to become famous)
  • "The ancient pyramids are still famed for their architectural brilliance." (Noun – the state of being famous)
  • “Despite his fame, he remained a humble and down-to-earth person.” (Noun – emphasizing a characteristic alongside fame)

Resources for Further Exploration:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to do with the word “fame”? (e.g., writing a story, having a conversation, etc.)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you’re struggling with?

Synonyms for the word fame

Idioms of the word fame

fifteen minutes of fame
a short period of being famous
  • Everybody wants their fifteen minutes of fame.
shoot to fame/stardom
to suddenly become famous, especially as a singer or actor
  • He shot to fame almost overnight.
  • She shot to stardom in a Broadway musical.

Practice with vocabulary fame

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Many young entrepreneurs dream of achieving widespread ______ through their innovative startups.
  2. Despite his considerable wealth, the reclusive billionaire preferred to live a life away from public ______.
  3. The politician's decades of public service earned him a strong ______ for integrity and dedication.
  4. Her groundbreaking work in quantum physics brought her international ______, leading to a Nobel Prize nomination.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of the following words describe the state of being widely known and highly esteemed? a) oblivion b) obscurity c) renown d) fame
  2. Which word best completes the sentence: "Despite his newfound ______, the author remained humble and focused on his writing, shying away from media attention." a) anonymity b) notoriety c) fame d) insignificance
  3. The startup's innovative product quickly gained significant ______ within the tech community, leading to rapid growth. a) obscurity b) disrepute c) traction d) notoriety
  4. Which of these words would you use to describe a person who is well-known for a particularly scandalous or negative reason? a) celebrated b) infamous c) renowned d) prestigious
  5. After years of dedicated research, Professor Evans finally achieved considerable ______ in her field, culminating in a major grant for her next project. a) insignificance b) prominence c) anonymity d) obscurity

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Many aspiring musicians dream of becoming well-known around the world for their talent.
    • Rewrite:
  2. The scientist's groundbreaking discovery made him highly celebrated in his field.
    • Rewrite:
  3. The company has earned a very good standing over the years due to its reliable products and excellent customer service.
    • Rewrite:

Answer:

Exercise 1:

  1. fame
  2. fame
  3. reputation
  4. acclaim

Exercise 2:

  1. c) renown, d) fame
  2. c) fame
  3. c) traction
  4. b) infamous
  5. b) prominence

Exercise 3:

  1. Many aspiring musicians dream of achieving global fame for their talent.
  2. The scientist became famous for his groundbreaking discovery in his field.
  3. The company has built a strong reputation over the years due to its reliable products and excellent customer service.

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