Translation guide
The act of giving a name to someone or something, or referring to something by a specific name. Japanese uses different verbs and patterns depending on whether you are officially naming a child, casually calling someone by a nickname, or designating a thing.
To bestow a name upon someone, often officially or with care.
The most common verb for giving a name to a baby, pet, or fictional character. It implies a deliberate act of naming.
We named our daughter Sakura.
Let's name the new kitten Mike.
A more formal, often written term for naming, used in official contexts like naming ceremonies or product naming.
The new bridge was named 'Kibou Ohashi'.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'to give the name ~'. Useful when you want to emphasize the name itself.
I gave my dog the name 'Pochi'.
To refer to someone using a particular name or title in conversation.
The standard verb for calling someone by a name, nickname, or title. It covers both addressing someone directly and referring to them.
My friends call me 'Tak-kun'.
Please call him 'Sensei'.
A slightly more explicit pattern, often used when clarifying how to refer to someone.
I call her 'Onee-san'.
To assign a name to an object, idea, or location.
To mention or list something by its name, often in a formal or explicit manner.
Means 'to name' in the sense of listing or citing specific examples. Often used with '名前を'.
Please name three candidates.
Can you name a specific example?
To name someone for a role or position, like nominating or designating.
I name him as the next chairperson.
名付ける is the everyday verb for naming babies, pets, or personal creations. 命名する is more formal and often used in official or public contexts, such as naming ceremonies, discoveries, or buildings.
English 'to name' can be translated in many ways. Do not assume a single Japanese verb fits all situations. For example, 'name a price' is 値段を言う, not 名付ける.
The new species of insect was named by its discoverer.