ニックネーム
nikkunēmu[ɲ̟ik̚kɯ̟ne̞ːmɯ̟]
The English phrase "your nickname" is translated into Japanese as ニックネーム (nikkunēmu).
ニックネーム refers to an informal name used to refer to a person instead of their real name.
Which one should you use?
ニックネーム is a loanword from English, while あだ名 is a common native Japanese alternative for the word nickname.
How do you pronounce it?
nikkunēmu
When do people say it?
To express affection or endearment, speakers often add the suffix chan to a person's name or nickname.
Did you know?
- While ニックネーム is common, the native word あだ名 can sometimes carry a negative connotation, as it was historically used for teasing or mocking names.
- Some people use a ニックネーム called a ハンドルネーム (handle name) specifically for their online identity on social media or forums.
- Certain Japanese nicknames are created using kira-kira names, where characters are chosen for their visual beauty or unique sounds rather than traditional readings.
Examples in context
- 君のニックネームは何？What is your nickname?This sentence is useful for asking someone what their ニックネーム is.Tatoeba #9124438 by small_snow, translation #3373322 by nasirusman
- 新しいニックネームを考えたよ。Atarashii nikkunemu o kangaeta yo.I thought of a new nickname.
- ニックネームで呼んでもいい？Nikkunemu de yonde mo ii?Can I call you by your nickname?
Example conversation
Two friends are chatting at a cafe.
- 美咲 Misakiニックネームは何ていうの？Nikkunemu wa nante iu no?What is your nickname?
- 大翔 Hiroto「ヒロ」って呼ばれているよ。Hiro tte yobarete iru yo.People call me Hiro.
- 美咲 Misakiそのニックネーム、かっこいいね！Sono nikkunemu, kakkoii ne!That nickname is cool!
- 大翔 Hirotoありがとう、美咲。Arigatou, Misaki.Thanks, Misaki.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ニックネーム, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
