does not name

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "does not name" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something or someone is not identified or specified by a name. Example: "The document does not name the individuals involved in the decision-making process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Does not name it.

The New Yorker

He, too, does not name names.

The Economist

The report does not name this person.

Independent

It does not name the official.

The New York Times

However, the story does not name any sources.

The New York Times

However, it does not name specific targets or people.

Independent

(The book does not name or acknowledge the cars' owners).

The New York Times

The Deutsche suit does not name any individual bank employees.

The New York Times

The lawsuit does not name PriceWaterhouseCoopers as a defendant.

The New York Times

It does not name either tribe as a defendant.

The New York Times

The book does not name the intelligence officer.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "does not name", ensure the context clearly indicates what or whom is not being named. This avoids ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the significance of the omission.

Common error

Avoid using "does not name" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "doesn't say" or "doesn't mention" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "does not name" functions as a verb phrase indicating the omission of a specific name or identifier. As shown by Ludwig, it's used to highlight that a person, document, or source refrains from specifically identifying someone or something by name.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "does not name" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, particularly in news and media contexts. Ludwig confirms its purpose is to emphasize the absence of a specific name or identifier, often highlighting omissions or deliberate vagueness. While suitable for neutral and professional writing, simpler alternatives might be preferable in informal settings. The phrase's prevalence in authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian underscores its reliability and utility in formal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

leaves unnamed

Focuses on the result of not providing a name.

fails to specify

Emphasizes a failure to provide detailed information.

refrains from identifying

Suggests a deliberate choice to avoid identification.

omits the designation

Highlights the act of leaving out a particular title or identifier.

withholds the identity

Focuses on the act of holding back someone's identity.

declines to mention

Implies a conscious decision to not bring something up.

doesn't disclose

Indicates a withholding of information.

keeps anonymous

Highlights the preservation of anonymity.

avoids pinpointing

Stresses the act of steering clear of precise identification.

skirts around the issue

Suggests avoiding direct confrontation by not naming someone or something.

FAQs

What does "does not name" mean?

The phrase "does not name" means that a person, document, or source refrains from specifically identifying someone or something by name. It implies an omission or a deliberate choice to keep the identity vague.

How can I use "does not name" in a sentence?

You can use "does not name" to indicate that a specific identity is missing from a report, article, or statement. For example, "The report "does not name" the official involved in the scandal."

What are some alternatives to "does not name"?

Alternatives to "does not name" include "doesn't mention", "fails to specify", or "leaves unnamed". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "does not identify" or "does not name"?

"Does not identify" and "does not name" are similar, but "does not identify" implies a broader failure to recognize or pinpoint something, while "does not name" specifically refers to the absence of a name. The choice depends on whether you're focusing on the lack of a name or the lack of any form of identification.