Translation guide
A pen name is a pseudonym used by writers. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is ペンネーム, a loanword from English. The native term 号 is also used, especially in literary contexts, and can be combined with other words like 雅号 for artists. When referring to a specific person's pen name, you can use 〜のペンネーム or 〜の号.
The general concept of a pen name used by a writer.
The most common and direct translation, a loanword from English. Widely understood.
彼女はペンネームで小説を書いている。
She writes novels under a pen name.
A native Japanese term meaning 'pseudonym' or 'alias', often used in literary or artistic contexts. Can be combined with other words.
彼の号は「漱石」です。
His pen name is 'Soseki'.
A more formal or literary term for pen name, literally 'brush name'. Less common in everyday speech.
その作家は筆名を使って作品を発表した。
The author published the work under a pen name.
A pen name specifically used by artists, calligraphers, or haiku poets.
Refers to an artist's pseudonym, used by painters, calligraphers, haiku poets, etc. It implies a refined or elegant alias.
彼の雅号は「雪舟」です。
His artist name is 'Sesshu'.
Can also be used for artists, but 雅号 is more specific.
この絵には画家の号が書いてある。
This painting has the artist's pseudonym written on it.
How to say 'his pen name', 'her pen name', etc.
Attach の to a person's name or pronoun to indicate their pen name.
夏目漱石のペンネームは「漱石」です。
Natsume Soseki's pen name is 'Soseki'.
Using 号 instead of ペンネーム sounds more traditional or literary.
彼の号は何ですか？
What is his pen name?