Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to a former name depends on context: a person's previous name (e.g., maiden name, before a name change), a place's old name, or a former title/designation. The most common expressions are 旧姓 (maiden name/former surname), 旧名 (former name, often for things or people), and 元の名前 (original/former name).
To refer to a person's former surname, especially a maiden name.
Specifically means 'former surname' or 'maiden name'. Commonly used in official contexts and everyday conversation.
Her maiden name is Tanaka.
Literally 'original name' or 'former name'. Can be used for a person's previous name, but is less specific than 旧姓.
His former name was John.
Means 'former name' and can be used for people, but is more formal and often used for historical figures or pen names.
The author's former name was Taro Yamada.
To refer to the previous name of a location, institution, or entity.
Commonly used for former names of places, buildings, or organizations. Neutral formality.
The former name of the city is Edo.
Literally 'old name' or 'name from the past'. More casual and conversational.
Can also be used for places, meaning 'original name' or 'former name'.
What was the company's former name?
To refer to a previous title, rank, or role name.
旧姓 (kyūsei) is specifically for a former surname, most often a maiden name. 旧名 (kyūmei) is a general term for a former name, used for people, places, or things, and is slightly formal. 元の名前 (moto no namae) is a casual, all-purpose 'former name' and can be used in most situations.
It's been a while since I've been called by my maiden name.
What is the former name of this building?
The phrase 'former name' directly translated as 前の名前 (mae no namae) is understandable but not idiomatic. Use 旧姓, 旧名, or 元の名前 instead.
Do you know the old name of this station?