Translation guide
The English word 'alias' refers to an alternative name or identity, often used to conceal one's real name. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 偽名 (gimei) for a false name, but other terms like 別名 (betsumei) or 通称 (tsūshō) are used depending on context. This guide explains how to express the concept of an alias naturally in Japanese.
Expressing a name used to conceal one's real identity, often for deceptive purposes.
The standard word for a false name or alias used to hide one's identity. It can be used in both formal and casual contexts.
彼は偽名を使ってホテルにチェックインした。
He checked into the hotel using an alias.
その詐欺師は偽名で被害者に近づいた。
The con artist approached the victim under an alias.
Literally 'changed name', often used in formal or legal contexts to refer to an alias. Slightly more formal than 偽名.
容疑者は変名を使用していたことが判明した。
It was discovered that the suspect had been using an alias.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'false name'. It is less common than 偽名 and can sound slightly literary.
彼は偽りの名前を名乗った。
He gave a false name.
Expressing a name used in addition to or instead of one's real name, without intent to deceive.
Means 'another name' or 'alias'. Used for alternative names that are not necessarily deceptive, such as pen names or stage names.
この作家は別名でも作品を発表している。
This author also publishes works under an alias.
その都市は「風の都」という別名で知られている。
The city is known by the alias 'City of Winds'.
Refers to a common name or alias by which someone or something is generally known, often a nickname or abbreviated name.
Means 'pet name' or 'nickname' used affectionately. It implies a close relationship.
Expressing a username, handle, or screen name used in digital environments.
Commonly used for online aliases or usernames. Often shortened to ハンドル (handoru).
ネットではハンドルネームを使っています。
I use an alias online.
Means 'username', the technical term for an account alias.
ユーザー名を入力してください。
Please enter your alias/username.
偽名 (gimei) implies deception or hiding one's identity. 別名 (betsumei) is a neutral alternative name, like a pen name. 通称 (tsūshō) is a commonly used name or nickname, often informal.
犯人は偽名を使っていた。
The criminal used an alias (false name).
その作家は別名で小説を書いている。
The author writes novels under an alias (pen name).
彼の通称は「ボス」だ。
His alias/nickname is 'Boss'.
Using 偽名 for a simple nickname or stage name can sound like you are accusing someone of deception. Use 別名 or 通称 instead.
そのスパイは複数の偽名を使っていた。
The spy operated under several aliases.
彼女は「ナイチンゲール」という別名で知られている。
She is known by the alias 'The Nightingale'.
彼の通称は「タケ」です。
His alias is 'Take'.
彼女の愛称は「ユキちゃん」です。
Her alias/nickname is 'Yuki-chan'.
Used for nicknames in general, including online aliases. Less specific than ハンドルネーム.
ゲームではニックネームで呼ばれています。
I'm called by my alias/nickname in the game.