01
berüchtigt
notorious
Known because of negative qualities or deeds; having a bad reputation.
example
Die Kneipe war für ihre Schlägereien berüchtigt.
The pub was notorious for its brawls.
berüchtigt
notorious
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Meanings
Usage tips
Word family
The word contains the stem of 'der Ruf' (reputation). It describes someone or something having a widely known, but exclusively bad, reputation.
EXAMPLE
Der Politiker hat einen berüchtigten Ruf.
The politician has a notorious reputation.
Fixed preposition
To name the reason for the bad reputation, the preposition 'für' (for) with the accusative is almost always used. The structure is: 'berüchtigt für etwas sein' (to be notorious for something).
EXAMPLE
Der General war für seine Grausamkeit berüchtigt.
The general was notorious for his cruelty.
Usage
'Berüchtigt' (notorious) can refer to people, places, or even qualities. It is always used in a negative context.
EXAMPLE
Er war ein berüchtigter Dieb.
He was a notorious thief.
Compare with
berüchtigt vs bekannt
known
'bekannt' and 'berüchtigt' both say that many people know someone or something. The difference lies in the evaluation. 'bekannt' is neutral or can be positive: a person, place, or product is familiar to many people. 'berüchtigt' is always negative: someone or something is known for bad qualities, problems, or actions. Learners may confuse the words because both have to do with being known. Remember: 'bekannt' only says that many people know it; 'berüchtigt' says that it has a bad reputation.
berüchtigt
Die Kreuzung ist berüchtigt, weil dort oft Unfälle passieren.
The intersection is notorious because accidents often happen there.
bekannt
Diese Bäckerei ist für ihre frischen Brötchen bekannt.
This bakery is known for its fresh rolls.
In real life
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