a given name

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a given name" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a person's first name, distinguishing it from their surname or family name. Example: "In many cultures, a given name is chosen based on family traditions or personal significance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

At most one slot of a given name can be accessible in an instance.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

And on a given name to getNode, it will get out the actual node.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The 1850 census offers a given name for that mother, Elmira, who died soon after.

The New York Times

Still, there can be questions about the identity of a person posting under a given name.

The New York Times

The choosing of a given name is a highly private and individual matter.

Encyclopedia Britannica

An earlier version of this article misstated a given name in a quotation by Sonja Lyubomirsky.

The New York Times

On a less-elevated level, there is the example of a rich uncle making a given name more than eligible.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

A: My given name was Don.

The Washington Post

So if the majority votes as per the algorithm agree on a given name/structure association, there would be two triples specifying the link between the synonym and substance (in the substance subdomain), as well as the link between the synonym and compound (in the synonym subdomain).

Journal of Cheminformatics

In the 19th century it also become popular as a given name especially in the more anglicised areas of the United States.

Wikipedia

Although there is a given-name discrepancy, additional illumination is provided by Simpson M. Ritter in the publication From the Annals of Sports.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing formally, consider using "forename" instead of "a given name" for a more sophisticated tone.

Common error

Avoid interchanging "a given name" with a surname. "A given name" refers to the first name, while a surname is the family or last name.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a given name" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject or object in a sentence. It identifies a person's first name, as demonstrated by the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

26%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Science

15%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a given name" correctly identifies a person's first name and is suitable for various contexts. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. While alternatives like "first name" or "forename" exist, "a given name" maintains a level of formality and precision suitable for academic, news, and encyclopedia contexts. Remember to differentiate it from a surname to avoid confusion. As shown by Ludwig's analysis, while its use is considered very common, tailoring it with alternative word choices can improve the overall writing quality depending on the target audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

first name

Direct synonym; more concise.

forename

Formal synonym for first name.

birth name

The name assigned at birth.

personal name

Broader term encompassing all names associated with an individual.

legal first name

Highlights the legal aspect of the first name.

baptismal name

Refers to the name given at baptism.

Christian name

Historical term for first name, referring to Christian tradition.

primary name

A different way to express the main name of someone

name

A shortened reference where the context makes it clear that it refers to a given name

individual's first name

A more descriptive and explanatory way to express a person's first name.

FAQs

What's the difference between "a given name" and a surname?

"A given name" refers to a person's first name, while a surname is their family or last name. For example, in "John Smith", John is the given name and Smith is the surname.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "a given name"?

You can use alternatives like "first name" or "forename", depending on the context.

Is it ever incorrect to use "a given name"?

No, it is grammatically correct, but depending on the context (for example, in very informal situations), a more common expression such as "first name" might be more appropriate.

How do cultures differ in the use of "a given name"?

Cultures vary significantly; some prioritize family names, while others emphasize "a given name" reflecting personal or cultural values. Some cultures also have naming ceremonies.