using an alias

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "using an alias" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone adopting a different name or identity, often for privacy or anonymity reasons. Example: "The author chose to publish her novel using an alias to protect her identity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

In January 2006, a person the F.D.A. has now identified as Mr. Jin using an alias wrote to an American customer, warning, "US custom is tighten control, you should stop email directly to gensci anymore and delete all your records".

The New York Times

He had been using an alias.

The New York Times - Sports

Moreover, sometimes Mr. Bo's family members have held their stakes using an alias.

The New York Times

Several days after the attacks, he fled to the West Coast in disguise and using an alias.

The New York Times

Using an alias, Markovic had purchased the cell phone that Mikic used while planning the Courchevel heist.

The New Yorker

Using an alias, Mr. Kilgore had been working as a researcher at the University of Cape Town for several years.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

For one, I sent them the information from one of my lesser-used gmail accounts and also used an alias.

The New York Times

He could use an alias.

The New York Times - Sports

In the theft case, he used an alias, Vincent Fabrice Algier.

The New York Times

(He's listed, but he uses an alias).

The New Yorker

He may have used an alias or avoided using public internet accounts altogether.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about legal or security contexts, consider if a more specific term like "using a false identity" might be more accurate than "using an alias".

Common error

Avoid using "using an alias" interchangeably with "AKA" (also known as). "Using an alias" describes the act of employing a different name, while "AKA" introduces the name itself. For example: "The spy, "using an alias", was also known as 'The Shadow'."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "using an alias" functions as a gerund phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier. It describes the manner in which an action is performed, as Ludwig AI confirms, and can modify verbs indicating how someone performs an action, such as "fled" or "purchased".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

13%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "using an alias" is a gerund phrase that describes the act of employing a different name, typically to conceal one's true identity. As Ludwig AI shows, it's considered grammatically correct and enjoys very common usage across diverse contexts, especially in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, the phrase can carry implications of secrecy or deception. The best practice involves using more specific terms when appropriate. When using this phrase, ensure you differentiate ""using an alias"" from "AKA".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under an assumed name

This alternative emphasizes the act of taking on a different name, often for deceptive purposes.

under a false name

This phrase stresses the incorrectness of the name being used.

under a pseudonym

This suggests the use of a pen name, usually in writing or creative contexts.

under an assumed identity

This phrase broadens the scope to include more than just a name.

with a fictitious name

This emphasizes that the name is invented or not real.

anonymously

This focuses on the lack of identification rather than the use of a different name.

incognito

Implies concealing one's true identity and social status.

under cover

Suggests operating secretly, often in espionage or law enforcement.

posing as someone else

Focuses on the act of pretending to be another person.

going by another name

Simply indicates the use of a different name, without necessarily implying deception.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "using an alias"?

Use "using an alias" when you want to describe the action of someone employing a different name, often to hide their real identity. This could be for various reasons, such as privacy, security, or deception.

What are some alternatives to "using an alias"?

You can use phrases like "under an assumed name", "under a false name", or "under a pseudonym" depending on the specific context and the reason for using the different name.

Is "using an alias" formal or informal?

"Using an alias" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts. The formality of the surrounding text will often determine the overall tone.

What's the difference between ""using an alias"" and "going by another name"?

"Using an alias" often implies an intent to conceal one's true identity, whereas "going by another name" can simply mean that someone is known by a different name, without necessarily implying deception or concealment.