goes by the name of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "goes by the name of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone or something that is also known by another name. Example: The famous singer, who goes by the name of Eloise, was born in London.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It goes by the name of globalization.

The New York Times - Books

He goes by the name of Hatch.

The Guardian

This miracle goes by the name of soccer.

The New York Times - Magazine

These days, Archy goes by the name of King Krule.

The Guardian - Music

(The Chinese proprietor goes by the name of Mr. D'Or).

The New Yorker

This new version of genetic engineering goes by the name of synthetic biology.

Yale University

The fourth is by a man who goes by the name of "Scud".

The New York Times - Arts

Take the financial alchemy that goes by the name of securitisation.

The Economist

The theoretical problem goes by the name of "complementary monopolies" or "double marginalisation".

The Economist

In Taiwan he goes by the name of the "White Wolf".

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

In North Korea, the drug goes by the name of., or "leaf tobacco".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "goes by the name of," ensure that the context clearly indicates why the alternative name is being introduced (e.g., anonymity, stage name, informal reference).

Common error

Avoid using "goes by the name of" in highly formal or academic writing where a more direct or precise term like "also known as" or "referred to as" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "goes by the name of" functions as an introducer of an alternative identifier. As confirmed by Ludwig, it indicates that a person, thing, or concept is also recognized by another name. It serves to present a secondary or less formal designation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the expression "goes by the name of" is a common and grammatically sound way to introduce an alternative name or identifier. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is particularly useful for nicknames, pseudonyms, or stage names. The phrase sees frequent use in news and media contexts, with a more neutral register suitable for broad communication. While "goes by the name of" is versatile, alternatives like "also known as" may be more suitable for formal academic or scientific contexts. Therefore, understanding its function and context allows for effective and clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Also known as

This alternative is more concise and directly states the alternative name.

Otherwise known as

This alternative emphasizes that the name is less common or well-known.

Also referred to as

This alternative is more formal and emphasizes the act of referring to something.

Known as

This alternative is simpler and more direct, omitting the 'goes by'.

Identified as

This alternative is suitable when referring to identification in a specific context.

Designated as

This alternative implies a formal assignment of a name or title.

Uses the name

This alternative focuses on the action of using a particular name.

Styled as

This alternative is best used when discussing a particular style or presentation of a name.

Called

This alternative is a very simple and common way to indicate a name.

Bears the name of

This alternative is more formal and literary.

FAQs

What does "goes by the name of" mean?

The phrase "goes by the name of" indicates that someone or something is also known or referred to by another name. It is used to introduce a pseudonym, nickname, or alternative designation.

What can I say instead of "goes by the name of"?

You can use alternatives like "also known as", "also referred to as", or "known as" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "going by the name of"?

Yes, "going by the name of" is a grammatically correct and acceptable alternative to "goes by the name of". They both serve the same purpose of introducing an alternative name.

When is it appropriate to use "goes by the name of"?

It is appropriate to use "goes by the name of" when introducing a name that is not the official or primary name, such as a nickname, stage name, or pseudonym. It implies that the person or thing is also known by this other name.