享誉全球
Enjoy a worldwide reputation
Literally: Enjoy (享) reputation (誉) whole (全) globe (球)
Use it to describe top-tier, world-famous entities that command respect across all borders.
In 15 Seconds
- Used for world-class fame and prestigious global reputations.
- Combines 'enjoying reputation' with 'the entire globe'.
- Best for brands, landmarks, artists, and high-end achievements.
Meaning
This phrase describes someone or something that is famous all over the world. It is the ultimate compliment for a brand, an artist, or a landmark that everyone recognizes regardless of where they live.
Key Examples
3 of 6Discussing a famous landmark
长城是享誉全球的建筑奇迹。
The Great Wall is an architectural wonder that enjoys a worldwide reputation.
Praising a world-class musician
这位钢琴家享誉全球，演出门票总是一抢而空。
This pianist is world-renowned, and his concert tickets always sell out instantly.
In a business meeting about branding
我们的目标是打造一个享誉全球的品牌。
Our goal is to build a brand that enjoys a worldwide reputation.
Cultural Background
This expression reflects the modern Chinese aspiration for international recognition and 'soft power.' It is frequently used in state media and business contexts to celebrate Chinese brands or cultural icons that have successfully 'gone global.' It embodies the pride of being respected on the world stage.
The 'Subject First' Rule
Usually, put the subject first: [Subject] + [享誉全球]. You don't need 'is' (是) if you use it as a predicate, but adding '的' makes it a great adjective for nouns.
Don't use for 'Infamy'
If a criminal is known worldwide, use '臭名昭著' (stinking reputation) instead. '享誉' implies honor and prestige.
In 15 Seconds
- Used for world-class fame and prestigious global reputations.
- Combines 'enjoying reputation' with 'the entire globe'.
- Best for brands, landmarks, artists, and high-end achievements.
What It Means
享誉全球 is your go-to phrase for global superstars. It combines 'enjoying a reputation' with 'the entire globe.' Think of it as the gold standard of fame. It is not just about being known. It is about being respected and celebrated everywhere. If people in New York, Tokyo, and Paris all know it, this phrase fits perfectly.
How To Use It
You usually place this right after a subject or use it as an adjective. For example, 'This chef is 享誉全球.' It functions as a complete thought on its own. You do not need many extra words to make it punchy. It sounds sophisticated and polished in conversation. Use it when you want to sound impressed by someone's reach.
When To Use It
Use this during business presentations to describe your company's prestige. It works great when discussing travel destinations like the Great Wall. You can use it when talking about legendary movies or tech giants. It is perfect for showing off your vocabulary in a formal interview. Even in casual chats, use it to playfully exaggerate a friend's 'fame' after they post a viral photo. It adds a touch of class to your descriptions.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for local heroes or neighborhood shops. If the person is only famous in your hometown, this sounds sarcastic. Avoid using it for 'infamous' people who are known for bad things. This phrase carries a positive, prestigious vibe. Do not use it for short-lived internet memes that will be forgotten tomorrow. It implies a lasting, solid reputation built over time. It is too heavy for a brand-new startup with ten followers.
Cultural Background
Chinese culture places a massive emphasis on 'face' and reputation. Being known globally is the ultimate 'big face' for a person or country. Historically, Chinese scholars valued 'leaving a name in history.' This phrase reflects that deep respect for legacy and international recognition. It shows a bridge between China and the rest of the world. It is a source of pride when a Chinese brand achieves this status.
Common Variations
You might hear 闻名中外, which means famous in China and abroad. There is also 名扬天下, which sounds a bit more like an old martial arts novel. 举世闻名 is a very close cousin you can use interchangeably. However, 享誉全球 feels slightly more modern and professional. It is the 'suit and tie' version of being famous. Stick with this one for a sleek, international feel.
Usage Notes
This is a high-register expression. While common in professional writing and speeches, using it in casual conversation marks you as a sophisticated speaker with a strong command of formal Chinese.
The 'Subject First' Rule
Usually, put the subject first: [Subject] + [享誉全球]. You don't need 'is' (是) if you use it as a predicate, but adding '的' makes it a great adjective for nouns.
Don't use for 'Infamy'
If a criminal is known worldwide, use '臭名昭著' (stinking reputation) instead. '享誉' implies honor and prestige.
The Power of 'Yu'
The character '誉' (yù) specifically means 'praise' or 'honor'. Using this phrase tells people you don't just know the person, you respect them deeply.
Examples
6长城是享誉全球的建筑奇迹。
The Great Wall is an architectural wonder that enjoys a worldwide reputation.
Standard use describing a world-famous site.
这位钢琴家享誉全球，演出门票总是一抢而空。
This pianist is world-renowned, and his concert tickets always sell out instantly.
Linking global fame to high demand.
我们的目标是打造一个享誉全球的品牌。
Our goal is to build a brand that enjoys a worldwide reputation.
Expressing high-level corporate ambition.
这家餐厅的小笼包可是享誉全球的，必须去试试！
The soup dumplings here are world-famous; we have to try them!
Using a formal phrase in a casual text for emphasis.
哟，你现在发个朋友圈都点赞过百，真是享誉全球啊！
Wow, you get over 100 likes on a post now; you're truly world-famous!
Slightly sarcastic/humorous exaggeration.
他的科学成就让他享誉全球，受人敬仰。
His scientific achievements earned him a worldwide reputation and respect.
Focuses on the emotional weight of a lifetime's work.
Test Yourself
Choose the correct phrase to describe a world-famous smartphone brand.
这家科技公司的产品___，销往一百多个国家。
Since the products are sold in over 100 countries, 'enjoying a worldwide reputation' is the most fitting description.
Complete the sentence to praise a famous tea culture.
中国的茶文化___，吸引了许多外国游客。
Tea culture is a major cultural export of China, making it 'world-renowned'.
🎉 Score: /2
Visual Learning Aids
Fame Formality Scale
Basic 'famous', used for anyone.
He is famous in school.
Has a name/reputation, neutral.
This shop is well-known.
Prestigious, global, and formal.
A Nobel Prize winner.
Where to use 享誉全球
Luxury Brands
Rolex or Hermès
Historical Sites
The Forbidden City
Scientific Giants
Albert Einstein
Global Cuisine
Italian Pasta
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, absolutely! It is often used for experts, artists, or leaders. For example: 他是享誉全球的医生 (He is a world-renowned doctor).
It is a bit formal for texting, but it works if you are being extra complimentary or slightly hyperbolic with friends.
有名 (yǒumíng) just means 'famous' and is very common. 享誉全球 is much more prestigious and specifically means 'global' fame.
No. The word 誉 implies honor. For a bad reputation, use 臭名远扬 (chòumíng yuǎnyáng).
Yes, it is a favorite in Chinese news (CCTV) when discussing international relations or successful Chinese exports.
Yes, 全球 literally means 'whole globe.' If they are only famous in one country, use 享誉全国 (nationwide) instead.
Only if that small company is actually known worldwide. Otherwise, it sounds like an exaggeration or a joke.
Not really a shorter one that carries the same weight, but 闻名全球 is a very common alternative.
It is pronounced: xiǎng yù quán qiú. Pay attention to the third tone on 'xiǎng' and 'quán'.
It functions like a four-character idiom, though some classify it as a fixed expression. It follows the 4-character rhythmic structure highly valued in Chinese.
Related Phrases
举世闻名 (World-famous)
名不虚传 (To have a well-deserved reputation)
闻名遐迩 (Famous near and far)
大名鼎鼎 (Very famous/Grand reputation)
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