Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a 'common name' can be expressed in several ways depending on context: a widely used everyday name (versus a formal or scientific one), a popular given name, or a shared surname. This guide covers the most natural Japanese expressions for each nuance.
The speaker wants to refer to the name by which something is commonly known, as opposed to its official, technical, or scientific name.
The most direct equivalent for 'common name' in the sense of a widely used, unofficial name. Used for people, places, things, etc.
この植物の通称は「サボテン」です。
The common name for this plant is 'cactus'.
彼の通称は「ボブ」ですが、本名はロバートです。
His common name is 'Bob', but his real name is Robert.
A popular or colloquial name, often with a slightly informal or folk connotation. Can imply a name used by the general public rather than experts.
この魚は俗称で「ギンポ」と呼ばれています。
This fish is commonly called 'gimpo'.
Literally 'general name', used in more formal or technical contexts to mean a name used by the general public, as opposed to a specialized term.
この化合物の一般名は「アスピリン」です。
The common name for this compound is 'aspirin'.
The speaker wants to talk about a first name that is very common or popular among people.
A natural way to say 'a common name' when referring to a frequently encountered given name.
日本では「太郎」はよくある名前です。
In Japan, 'Taro' is a common name.
Means 'common name' in the sense of a name that is not unusual. Slightly more formal than よくある名前.
「佐藤」は日本でとても一般的な名前です。
'Sato' is a very common name in Japan.
Literally 'commonplace name', can carry a slightly negative nuance of being too ordinary or unremarkable.
彼の名前はありふれた名前だから、すぐに覚えられない。
His name is so common that I can't remember it easily.
The speaker wants to refer to a surname that is shared by many people, or to ask if two people share the same surname.
The most natural way to say 'common surname' in Japanese.
鈴木は日本でよくある名字です。
Suzuki is a common surname in Japan.
A slightly more formal way to say 'common surname'.
田中はとても一般的な名字ですね。
Tanaka is a very common surname, isn't it?