举世闻名

• Pinyin: jǔ shì wén míng
• Hanzi breakdown: 举 = 兴 (all/raise); 世 = 卅 + 一 (world/generation); 闻 = 门 + 耳 (hear/be known); 名 = 夕 + 口 (name/fame)

Meaning

World-famous; renowned throughout the world. Used to describe something or someone celebrated and recognised globally.

A four-character chengyu expressing that something has gained recognition across the entire world. Commonly used for cultural landmarks, historical figures, and major achievements. Slightly less superlative than 举世无双.

Examples

1. 长城是举世闻名的历史建筑奇迹，每年吸引数以百万计的海内外游客。 The Great Wall is a world-famous historical marvel, attracting millions of visitors from China and abroad every year.
2. 这位科学家因其具有里程碑意义的突破性研究而举世闻名。 This scientist became world-famous for breakthrough research of milestone significance.
3. 举世闻名的品牌背后，往往是数十年如一日对品质的坚守与执着。 Behind a world-famous brand is often decades of unwavering commitment to quality.

Usage Guide

Context: culture, history, achievement

Tone: admiring

Do Say

• 故宫是举世闻名的文化遗产，见证了数百年王朝更迭的历史变迁。(The Forbidden City is a world-famous cultural heritage that has witnessed hundreds of years of dynastic change.)
• 他的作品在国际文坛举世闻名，迄今已被译成五十余种语言。(His works are world-renowned in the international literary world and have so far been translated into over fifty languages.)

Don't Say

• 我们学校举世闻名 — 举世闻名 implies genuine global recognition; use 小有名气 or 颇具知名度 for local or regional reputation

Origin & History

举世 (the whole world) + 闻名 (known by name/famous)

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal