This is an interesting post in which the author founded that there is a common patronymic surname pattern in English culture, where many surnames can be traced back to the father’s name, and sometimes use a nickname or diminutive suffix.
We could discover that the traditional naming methods of English names have some similarities with those of China.
- Bloodline and family heritage:
- In traditional English naming, the patronymic system (e.g., “Johnson,” “Peterson”) commonly reflects the identification of bloodline and family relationships through “in the name of the father.”
- In traditional Chinese naming, the surname serves as a family identifier, usually representing a sense of family heritage and belonging.
- Implied social and cultural information:
- Nicknames in English (such as those based on appearance, personality, or other characteristics) have gradually evolved into fixed surnames. Although the content may become abstract, it still reflects a certain understanding of individual characteristics or professions in society at that time.
- Chinese names (especially the characters in the names) often pursue good meanings, embodying the family’s expectations and good connotations for the child’s future, character, or destiny.