without naming names

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "without naming names" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation or issue without specifying the individuals involved. Example: "During the meeting, several team members expressed concerns about the project, without naming names."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Without naming names he said: "I've watched it.

The New York Times

Of course, we had that whole conversation without naming names..

The Guardian

"We will stand behind efforts to hold war criminals accountable," he said, without naming names.

The Economist

"I happen to be with a firm," Robinson said, without naming names.

The New York Times - Sports

Without naming names, he also strongly condemned the use of chemical weapons in Syria.

The New Yorker

"It was refused by some member states," he said without naming names.

The New York Times

He said he told Novitzky what he knew about doping in cycling, without naming names.

The New York Times - Sports

I'd rather just do this with someone from the crew.'" "I say this without naming names.

The Guardian - Film

Without naming names, Noble left no doubt about where the Lions had gone wrong.

The Guardian - Sport

But, without naming names, he described the traits he looks for in leaders.

The New York Times

You can go a professor or department chair and say there's cheating going on without naming names.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "without naming names" when you want to discuss a sensitive topic or situation while protecting the identity of the individuals involved. This allows you to maintain discretion while still conveying the necessary information.

Common error

Avoid using "without naming names" when the context doesn't warrant anonymity. Overusing it can create a sense of unnecessary suspense or make you seem evasive. If there's no real reason to protect someone's identity, it's often better to be direct.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "without naming names" functions as an adverbial phrase. It modifies a verb or clause, indicating the manner in which an action is performed—namely, alluding to someone or something without explicitly identifying them. Ludwig AI confirms the expression is grammatically correct and frequently employed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

81%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

9%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "without naming names" is a common and grammatically correct way to refer to individuals or entities indirectly, maintaining discretion or protecting identities. It functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent usage. Predominantly used in news and media contexts, its register is typically neutral to professional, indicating a level of sensitivity or confidentiality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making veiled references

Highlights the concealed nature of the references.

alluding indirectly

Similar to 'referring obliquely' but emphasizes the allusion.

alluding covertly

Emphasizes the secretive nature of the allusion.

referring obliquely

Highlights the indirect nature of the reference.

implying anonymously

Focuses on the act of implying while keeping the identity hidden.

anonymously alluding

Focuses on the act of alluding while maintaining anonymity.

referring generally

Indicates a reference made in a broad, non-specific manner.

alluding in general terms

Specifies that the allusion is made using general terminology.

hinting without specifying

Emphasizes the act of hinting without providing specific details.

hinting without disclosure

Highlights that hinting is done without revealing specific information.

FAQs

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "without naming names"?

It's appropriate to use "without naming names" when you want to discuss a situation or issue without revealing the identities of the individuals involved, often to maintain privacy or avoid potential conflict.

What does "without naming names" actually mean?

The phrase "without naming names" means referring to people or entities indirectly, without explicitly stating their identities. It's a way to discuss sensitive topics while protecting individuals' privacy.

Are there any formal alternatives to "without naming names"?

Yes, in more formal contexts, you can use phrases like "without specifying individuals" or "without revealing identities" to convey the same meaning.

How can I use "without naming names" in a sentence?

You can use it like this: "The report criticized several departments "without naming names", focusing instead on systemic issues."