Prominent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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prominent
[หprษmษชnษnt ]
Definitions
in society
Important and well-known in a particular field or activity.
Synonyms
distinguished, eminent, notable, renowned.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prominent |
Used to describe someone or something that stands out and is easily noticeable. This term can refer to physical prominence or to someone who is well-known and influential in a specific field.
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| distinguished |
Best used for someone who has achieved an exceptional level of respect, honor, and success in their career or field. This term conveys a sense of dignity and superiority.
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| eminent |
Refers to someone who is highly respected and famous, often within a particular professional field. This word has a formal and academic tone.
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| notable |
Describes something or someone worth noticing or mentioning, often because of their importance or relevance. This term is less formal than 'distinguished' or 'eminent'.
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| renowned |
Best used for describing someone or something famous and respected for a particular skill or achievement. This term often carries a sense of widespread acclaim.
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Examples of usage
- She is a prominent figure in the fashion industry.
- His prominent position in politics gave him a lot of influence.
physical appearance
Projecting from something; protuberant.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prominent |
Best used when referring to something that is very noticeable or important. It does not necessarily have a negative connotation.
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| protruding |
Describes something that sticks out from a surface. Often used for body parts or small objects and can carry a negative connotation.
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| bulging |
Suitable for describing something that is swelling outwards, often used for eyes, muscles, or objects filled to capacity. Can have a negative connotation when referring to body parts.
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| jutting |
Used when something extends outwards or upwards. Often refers to physical objects such as rocks, buildings, or jawlines.
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Examples of usage
- Her prominent cheekbones gave her a striking appearance.
- The prominent hill stood out against the flat landscape.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People tend to remember prominent figures or events better due to the 'primacy effect' in memory recall.
- Visual prominence can influence decision-making, as items that stand out are often perceived as more valuable.
- Cognitive biases can lead individuals to favor prominent opinions or options, believing they must be correct simply because they are noticeable.
Media and Communication
- In advertising, using elements that create prominence, such as colors and shapes, can attract consumer attention.
- Public speakers often strive to make their key points prominent to ensure their audience remembers the main messages.
- Prominent stories in media can shape public perception and influence societal norms or behaviors.
Cultural Significance
- Prominent landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower, become symbols of cities and cultures, attracting tourists worldwide.
- In many cultures, prominent individuals, such as leaders and artists, can inspire social movements and change.
- Artworks that are prominently displayed in galleries can guide public appreciation and understanding of cultural history.
Science
- Prominence in astronomy refers to the visibility and brightness of celestial bodies, making them easier to study.
- In biology, a prominent trait in animals can lead to better mating opportunities due to visibility to potential partners.
- Prominent features in geological formations can indicate historical processes, revealing insights about Earthโs history.
Origin of 'prominent'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'prominent' comes from the Latin word 'prominens', meaning 'overhanging' or 'projecting'.
- It first appeared in the English language in the late 14th century.
- The prefix 'pro-' means 'forward' or 'forth', which helps convey the idea of something that stands out.
The word 'prominent' originated from the Latin word 'prominere', which means 'to jut out' or 'to stand out'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe things that are projecting or standing out. Over time, it has evolved to also refer to things or people that are important, well-known, or distinguished in their respective fields.