Famous vs. Popular: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Updated on October 3, 2023
"Famous" refers to being widely known or recognized, while "Popular" denotes being liked or admired by many people.
Key Differences
"Famous" is a term that implies wide recognition. When someone or something is famous, it means they are known by a large number of people, often across different cultures or regions. This recognition might stem from achievements, talents, events, or other notable criteria. Importantly, being famous does not necessarily imply positivity or negativity; it simply denotes widespread awareness.
On the other hand, "Popular" is inherently more positive, suggesting that something is well-liked or preferred by a group of people. It implies acceptance, approval, or admiration. While popular entities are often known by many, the emphasis here is on the favorable reception rather than mere recognition. For instance, a trend can be popular within a specific community, even if it isn't widely recognized outside of it.
It's worth noting that while all popular figures might be known to some degree, not all famous figures are necessarily popular. A person could be famous for negative reasons and may not be well-liked or admired. For instance, a controversial figure might be famous worldwide but might not be popular in terms of widespread admiration.
Conversely, a local community leader might be popular within their community due to the positive impact they've made, but they might not have the widespread recognition that constitutes fame on a larger scale. Hence, while the terms "famous" and "popular" can sometimes overlap, they come with distinct nuances that set them apart.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Widely known or recognized
Liked or admired by many people
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Implication
Recognition
Favorability
Scope
Can be global or broad
Can be specific to a group or community
Inherent Value
Neutral (can be positive or negative)
Positive
Dependency on Reception
Doesn't require positive reception
Requires positive reception
Famous and Popular Definitions
Famous
Recognized for a particular achievement or feature.
She became famous for her unique style of singing.
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Popular
Liked or admired by many people.
That song is very popular among teenagers.
Famous
Widely known by many people.
Einstein is famous for his theory of relativity.
Popular
Accepted by acquaintances, peers, or the general public.
She's a popular figure in her community.
Famous
Having a widespread reputation.
The Grand Canyon is a famous landmark.
Popular
Widely liked or appreciated
A popular resort.
Famous
Known by a large group of individuals.
This painting is famous in art circles.
Popular
Liked by acquaintances; sought after for company
"Beware of over-great pleasure in being popular or even beloved" (Margaret Fuller).
Famous
Celebrated in reputation or public report.
He is famous for his charitable works.
Popular
Of, representing, or carried on by the people at large
The popular vote.
Famous
Well or widely known.
Popular
Fit for, adapted to, or reflecting the taste of the people at large
Popular entertainment.
Popular science.
Famous
First-rate; excellent
Had a famous time at the party.
Popular
Accepted by or prevalent among the people in general
A popular misunderstanding of the issue.
Famous
Known.
Popular
Suited to or within the means of ordinary people
Popular prices.
Famous
In the public eye.
Some people are only famous within their city.
Popular
Originating among the people
Popular legend.
Famous
To make famous; to bring renown to.
Popular
Common among the general public; generally accepted.
Famous
Celebrated in fame or public report; renowned; mach talked of; distinguished in story; - used in either a good or a bad sense, chiefly the former; often followed by for; as, famous for erudition, for eloquence, for military skill; a famous pirate.
Famous for a scolding tongue.
Popular
(legal) Concerning the people; public.
Famous
Widely known and esteemed;
A famous actor
A celebrated musician
A famed scientist
An illustrious judge
A notable historian
A renowned painter
Popular
Pertaining to or deriving from the people or general public.
Popular
(obsolete) Of low birth, not noble; vulgar, plebian.
Popular
Aimed at ordinary people, as opposed to specialists etc.; intended for general consumption.
Popular
(obsolete) Cultivating the favour of the common people.
Popular
Liked by many people; generally pleasing, widely admired.
Popular
Adapted to the means of the common people; cheap.
Popular
A person who is popular, especially at a school.
Popular
An inexpensive newspaper with wide circulation.
Popular
A member of the Populares
Popular
Of or pertaining to the common people, or to the whole body of the people, as distinguished from a select portion; as, the popular voice; popular elections.
The men commonly held in popular estimation are greatest at a distance.
Popular
Suitable to common people; easy to be comprehended; not abstruse; familiar; plain.
Homilies are plain popular instructions.
Popular
Adapted to the means of the common people; possessed or obtainable by the many; hence, cheap; common; ordinary; inferior; as, popular prices; popular amusements.
The smallest figs, called popular figs, . . . are, of all others, the basest and of least account.
Popular
Beloved or approved by the people; pleasing to people in general, or to many people; as, a popular preacher; a popular law; a popular administration.
Popular
Devoted to the common people; studious of the favor of the populace.
Such popular humanity is treason.
Popular
Prevailing among the people; epidemic; as, a popular disease.
Popular
Regarded with great favor, approval, or affection especially by the general public;
A popular tourist attraction
A popular girl
Cabbage patch dolls are no longer popular
Popular
Carried on by or for the people (or citizens) at large;
The popular vote
Popular representation
Institutions of popular government
Popular
Representing or appealing to or adapted for the benefit of the people at large;
Democratic art forms
A democratic or popular movement
Popular thought
Popular science
Popular fiction
Popular
Comprehensible to the general public;
Written for the popular press in plain nontechnical language
Popular
(of music or art) new and of general appeal (especially among young people)
Popular
Suited to or intended for the general public.
She writes popular science books.
Popular
Frequently encountered or widely accepted.
Green energy solutions are becoming more popular.
Popular
Enjoying the favor of public sentiment.
The decision proved to be popular among the residents.
FAQs
Is every popular person also famous?
No, a person can be popular in a small circle but not widely known.
Does popularity guarantee fame?
Not always; popularity in a niche might not lead to widespread fame.
Can one's fame be temporary?
Yes, some people might be famous for a short period, known as "15 minutes of fame."
Can someone be famous but not popular?
Yes, being famous just means widely known, not necessarily liked.
Can something be popular without being contemporary?
Yes, some things remain popular over time, becoming classics.
Can negative actions make someone famous?
Yes, individuals can become famous for negative reasons.
Is popularity always positive?
Generally, yes; popularity implies being well-liked or admired.
Do all famous figures seek attention?
No, some individuals become famous unintentionally.
Is being popular important?
It depends on context; popularity can be beneficial in some areas, like business or social settings.
What contributes to fame?
Achievements, media exposure, notable events, and more.
Does social media influence popularity?
Yes, social media can play a significant role in making someone or something popular.
Can places or things be famous?
Yes, landmarks, works of art, or events can be famous.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
