1.
colloquial name, popular name, common name, nickname
An informal or commonly used name for something, as opposed to its official or formal designation. Used for places, laws, phenomena, and other things that have both formal and informal names.
これは俗称で、正式名称は別にある。
This is a colloquial name — the official name is different.
この法律は俗称で「マイナンバー法」と呼ばれている。
This law is commonly known as the 'My Number Act.'
国会議事堂前の通りは俗称で「桜通り」と呼ばれているが、正式には別の名前がある。
The street in front of the National Diet Building is colloquially called 'Sakura-dori,' but it officially has a different name.
Compound of 俗 (popular, common) + 称 (name, title). Used to identify informal names in contrast to official designations.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 俗称で呼ぶ (to call by a common name)
- 俗称で知られる (to be known by a colloquial name)
- 正式名称と俗称 (official name and colloquial name)
DISTINCTIONS:
- 俗称: informal or commonly used name (neutral tone)
- 通称: commonly used name, alias (similar but broader; can be semi-official)
- 愛称: nickname, pet name (affectionate)
- 略称: abbreviation, shortened name