pseudonym
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pseudonym
An invented name that a person, especially an author or artist, uses instead of their real name in order to hide their identity.
Die Autorin Joanne K. Rowling veröffentlichte Kriminalromane unter dem Pseudonym Robert Galbraith.
The author Joanne K. Rowling published crime novels under the pseudonym Robert Galbraith.
The word comes from Greek. The prefix 'pseudo-' means 'false' or 'apparent', and the root '-nym' means 'name'. So a pseudonym is literally a 'false name'.
Viele YouTuber treten unter einem Pseudonym auf.
Many YouTubers appear under a pseudonym.
When you want to express that someone is using a false name, the preposition 'unter' (under) is the right choice. The fixed expression is: 'unter einem Pseudonym' (under a pseudonym) arbeiten, schreiben, or veröffentlichen (to work, write, or publish).
Er veröffentlichte seine kritischen Artikel unter einem Pseudonym.
He published his critical articles under a pseudonym.
In connection with 'Pseudonym' (pseudonym), the verbs 'verwenden' (to use), 'benutzen' (to use), 'wählen' (to choose), or 'sich zulegen' (to get/adopt for oneself) are frequently used.
Die Spionin musste sich für ihre Mission ein neues Pseudonym zulegen.
The spy had to adopt a new pseudonym for her mission.
alias
'das Alias' and 'das Pseudonym' both refer to a name that is not the real name. 'Pseudonym' is used especially for authors or artists when they hide their identity or publish under another name. 'Alias' is more general and can refer to various alternative names, including online names or cover names. The words can be confused because a pseudonym can be a type of alias. When talking about books, art, or publications, 'Pseudonym' sounds more precise. In other situations, 'Alias' is often more general.
Die Autorin veröffentlicht ihre Krimis unter einem Pseudonym.
The author publishes her crime novels under a pseudonym.
Für das Forum wählt Lisa ein Alias und gibt nicht ihren echten Namen an.
Lisa chooses an alias for the forum and does not give her real name.