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名前
なまえ
namae
The word "名前" is the standard term for a name. In daily conversation, adding the honorific prefix "o" (お名前) is extremely common and expected when asking for someone else's name to avoid sounding abrupt or rude.
In formal or administrative contexts, such as official forms, applications, or legal documents, the term "氏名" (shimei) is used instead of "名前". While "名前" is used in spoken language and casual writing, "氏名" is strictly for formal written documentation.
Beyond a literal identifier, "名前" can represent a person's social standing, brand, or reputation. When used in this sense, it refers to the "weight" or "value" associated with a person or organization in the eyes of society. This is often seen in expressions regarding fame or the loss of honor.
Avoid confusing "名前" with "名称" (meishō), which is used specifically for the official names of facilities, products, or organizations, and is rarely used for people.
Ý nghĩa
The word or set of words by which a person, animal, place, or thing is known.
名前を書く。
Write a name.
The opinion that people have about someone or something, especially in terms of fame or honor.
名前を売る。
Make a name for oneself.