nameuse

Nameuse, or name-use, is a term used in sociolinguistics and anthropology to describe the social practice of using names and naming forms in everyday interaction. It encompasses how people refer to others—by given name, surname, nickname, title, or honorific—and how those choices signal social relationships, status, and identity. The concept covers both the moment-to-moment use of names in speech and broader naming strategies in institutions and media.

Core components of nameuse include nomination (the act of selecting a name), address terms (how to address someone), and name variants (nicknames, pen names, stage names). It also involves alignment with cultural norms around formality, respect, and inclusion, and can involve resistance or deviation, such as choosing to use a preferred name or alternative forms of address.

Cultural variation is a central feature. In some societies, formal address with titles reflects hierarchy; in others, first-name usage is common regardless of status. Multilingual contexts often involve code-switching and pronunciation adjustments that influence name-use. The practice intersects with gender, ethnicity, nationality, and institutional roles, shaping how people are perceived and treated.

Applications and issues arise in schools, workplaces, and online platforms, where incorrect or unwanted name-use can contribute to exclusion or misgendering. Researchers study name-use to understand social identity, discrimination, and communication effectiveness. Data governance also considers the management of official names in records and databases.

Name-use is distinct from onomastics, the academic study of names; it focuses on living practice and social meaning. It is investigated through ethnography, discourse analysis, and sociolinguistic methodology.