Assessments · Guidance

What matters most in a name?

Answer each question honestly. Your score points toward the kind of name search that will serve your family best.

1. When you imagine introducing your child, what do you want people to notice first?

The story or meaning behind the name How beautiful it sounds out loud A clear link to family or culture That it is easy to spell and say everywhere

2. How important is a name that works across languages?

Essential — we travel or live between cultures Helpful but not required We mainly care about one language or community Uniqueness matters more than ease

3. Family heritage in a name feels…

Central — we want roots visible in the name Important as a middle name or inspiration Nice if it happens naturally Not a priority for us

4. A name with a strong meaning but awkward nickname is…

Still worth it if the meaning is right Acceptable with a planned nickname A concern — daily use matters A deal-breaker

5. On a shortlist, you rank names mainly by…

How they sound with your last name Written meaning and origin notes Cultural fit for your family Length, initials, and forms

6. Rare vs familiar names — your preference is closest to…

Familiar and easy in school and offices Recognizable but not overly common Uncommon, as long as it is pronounceable Very distinctive, even if people ask twice

7. Choosing from another culture than your own feels…

Only with deep learning and respect Open if the meaning and sound fit Something we would research carefully Not something we are considering

8. The final decision should feel…

Natural to say every day Aligned with values and meaning first Honoring of grandparents or place Simple on forms and passports

This is guidance, not a rule. You can always blend approaches.

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