What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
penname
Example
Mark Twain is the penname of Samuel Clemens. [penname: noun]
Example
She writes romance novels under a penname to keep her personal life private. [penname: noun]
pseudonym
Example
George Orwell is a pseudonym for Eric Arthur Blair. [pseudonym: noun]
Example
The author used a pseudonym to avoid being associated with their controversial past. [pseudonym: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pseudonym is more commonly used than penname in everyday language, especially in Europe. However, both terms are widely used in the publishing industry and are familiar to readers and writers alike.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between penname and pseudonym?
Pseudonym is more formal than penname, and is often used in academic or professional contexts. Penname is less formal and is often used in creative or casual contexts.
