Translation guide
A name used by a performer instead of their real name. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with specific terms for different entertainment fields.
The professional name used by an actor, singer, or performer in place of their legal name.
The most common and general term for a stage name, used across acting, music, and other performing arts.
彼女は芸名で活動している。
She performs under a stage name.
芸名を考えるのは楽しい。
Thinking up a stage name is fun.
A loanword from English, often used in music or international contexts. Sounds slightly more casual or trendy.
彼のステージネームは「レオ」です。
His stage name is "Leo."
The special professional name adopted by a sumo wrestler upon entering the sport.
Specifically refers to a sumo wrestler's ring name. Not used for other performers.
彼の四股名は「朝青龍」だった。
His ring name was "Asashoryu."
A name used by a writer, artist, or critic instead of their real name.
Commonly used for authors, manga artists, and critics. Equivalent to 'pen name'.
その作家はペンネームで小説を発表した。
The author published the novel under a pen name.
A suffix meaning 'pseudonym' or 'alias', often used in traditional arts like haiku or calligraphy. Attached after the name.
俳号は「芭蕉」です。
My haiku pen name is "Basho."
The hereditary or granted stage name used in classical Japanese performing arts.
芸名 is the safest general term for any performer's stage name. ステージネーム is a loanword often used in music or by younger entertainers. ペンネーム is strictly for writers and artists. Use 四股名 only for sumo wrestlers.
芸名は本名と違う。
A stage name is different from one's real name.
偽名 (ぎめい) means 'false name' or 'alias' and implies deception. It is not used for legitimate stage names. Use 芸名 or other specific terms instead.