is named for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is named for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that something or someone is named in honor of a person or thing. Example: "The city is named for the famous explorer who discovered the region."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Each cycle is named for a city.

The New York Times - Tech

(Iowa State's stadium is named for Trice).

The New York Times - Sports

An asteroid is named for him.

The New York Times

The stadium is named for Curly Lambeau.

The New York Times - Sports

It is named for Middlesex, Eng.

Encyclopedia Britannica

It is named for Nikola Tesla.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(The stage is named for him).

The New Yorker

Vancouver is named for Capt.

The New York Times - Arts

(Mr. Lane's character is named for him).

The New York Times

(The site is named for her business).

The New York Times - Tech

"The Deegan is named for who?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is named for", ensure that the reason for the naming is clear and relevant to the context. This helps maintain clarity and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid interchanging "named for" with "named after" loosely. While often used interchangeably, "named for" is slightly more formal and directly indicates the source of the name, whereas "named after" can sometimes imply a more general resemblance or inspiration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is named for" functions as a linking verb phrase, connecting a subject to the reason or person for whom it was named. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a grammatically correct and usable construction. This makes it useful for providing explanations or background information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Encyclopedias

29%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is named for" is a versatile and grammatically sound construction used to explain the origin or attribution of a name. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts, ranging from formal to informal. Analysis of usage patterns reveals its frequent occurrence in news, encyclopedias, and wikis, highlighting its role in informative writing. While similar to "is named after", "is named for" often carries a more formal connotation. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity and relevance to avoid ambiguity. Given its high frequency and broad applicability, mastering the use of "is named for" enhances effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

takes its name from

Highlights the origin of the name, specifying the source from which it is derived.

is a namesake of

Emphasizes the shared name between two entities, one being named after the other.

is designated after

Indicates a formal assignment of a name, often implying an official recognition.

is entitled after

Highlights the act of giving a title, emphasizing the naming process.

bears the name of

Focuses on the act of carrying the name of someone, suggesting honor or remembrance.

is inspired by

Suggests that the naming was influenced by someone or something, focusing on the inspiration behind the name.

is after

A more informal way of saying something is named in honor of someone.

is a tribute to

Indicates that the naming serves as an act of honor or respect toward someone.

is dedicated to

Emphasizes the intention of the naming to honor or serve a particular person or purpose.

commemorates

Focuses on the act of remembering someone or something through the naming.

FAQs

How can I use "is named for" in a sentence?

Use "is named for" to indicate that something or someone has been given a specific name to honor or remember a person, place, or thing. For example, "The park "is named for" the city's founder".

What can I say instead of "is named for"?

You can use alternatives like "takes its name from", "is a namesake of", or "is dedicated to" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "is named after" instead of "is named for"?

Both "is named for" and "is named after" are generally acceptable, but "is named for" is often considered slightly more formal and precise in indicating the direct source of the name.

What is the difference between "is named for" and "is inspired by"?

"Is named for" indicates a direct naming in honor of someone or something, while "is inspired by" suggests that the name was chosen due to influence or creativity derived from the source, not necessarily a direct dedication.