Meaning & use
was known as
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Meaning
phrasefixed phrase
had a particular name or title in the past, or was recognized by people in a certain way.
Grammar: Used after a subject: the thing or person that had the name comes first, then 'was known as' plus the name.
Patterns
- someone/something was known as a name
- was known as something by someone
The singer was known as the Queen of Soul.
This area was known as the old market before the new mall was built.
He was known as a fair teacher who never gave up on a student.
Common combinations
- was once known as
- The town was once known as a center for making glass.
- was widely known as
- She was widely known as a generous volunteer.
- was formerly known as
- The company was formerly known as Bell Labs.
Synonyms and how they differ
- was called
- More neutral and common in everyday speech; 'was known as' often suggests a title or reputation, not just a name.
- was named
- Focuses on the act of giving a name; 'was known as' focuses on how people referred to someone or something.
Word family
Commonly confused: was known as or was known for?
was known as vs was known for
'Was known for' introduces a quality or thing that made someone famous (known for her kindness); 'was known as' introduces the name or label.
Practice
Choose the correct phrase: The city ______ 'the Windy City' because of its strong winds.
Choose one answer.
'Was known as' fits because it introduces a name or label. 'Was known for' would need a quality or thing, not a name. 'Was known to' is used with verbs (was known to sing), and 'was known by' is used for how people recognized someone, not for a name.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “was known as”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.