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.
娘を「桜」と名付けました。
We named our daughter Sakura.
新しい子猫に「ミケ」と名付けよう。
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.
新しい橋は「希望大橋」と命名されました。
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.
犬に「ポチ」という名前をつけました。
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.
友達は私を「たっくん」と呼びます。
My friends call me 'Tak-kun'.
彼のことは「先生」と呼んでください。
Please call him 'Sensei'.
A slightly more explicit pattern, often used when clarifying how to refer to someone.
彼女のことは「お姉さん」と呼んでいます。
I call her 'Onee-san'.
To assign a name to an object, idea, or location.
Also used for naming things, especially when there is a creative or personal touch.
この花を「星のしずく」と名付けました。
I named this flower 'Hoshi no Shizuku'.
Used for official or formal naming of things like discoveries, products, or public facilities.
新種の昆虫は発見者によって命名されました。
The new species of insect was named by its discoverer.
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'.
候補者を3人挙げてください。
Please name three candidates.
具体的な例を挙げられますか？
Can you name a specific example?
To name someone for a role or position, like nominating or designating.
彼を次の議長に指名します。
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.