also known as

/ˈɔlsoʊ ˈnoʊn æz/

alternative name

The disease, also known as COVID-19, spread rapidly worldwide.

The disease, which has the alternative name COVID-19, spread rapidly worldwide.

formal

Used to introduce an alternative name for someone or something.

Alexander the Great, also known as Alexander III of Macedon, was a famous ruler.

Alexander the Great, who is also called Alexander III of Macedon, was a famous ruler.

The chemical compound, also known as salt, is essential for life.

The chemical compound, which is also referred to as salt, is essential for life.

Commonly abbreviated as 'aka' in informal contexts.

Collocations

akainformal abbreviation for 'also known as'

Synonyms

alternatively called otherwise known as also called

Related Phrases

otherwise known asphrase

introduces an alternative name with slightly more emphasis on the contrast

commonly referred to asphrase

introduces a widely accepted alternative name

Pro Tip

Avoid redundancy

Do not use 'also known as AKA'—'AKA' already implies 'also known as'.

Gold Rule

Usage in formal writing

Use 'also known as' to introduce a formal or secondary name, especially in academic, legal, or technical contexts.

Word Origin

The phrase combines 'also' (from Old English 'eallswa', meaning 'entirely so') and 'known' (past participle of 'know', from Old English 'cnawan') with the preposition 'as'. The structure emerged in English during the 16th century to introduce alternative names.

Usage Notes

Used in formal writing, academic contexts, and everyday speech to introduce a secondary name. Avoid using it redundantly (e.g., 'also known as AKA' is incorrect).

Word Breakdown

also

in addition to what has been mentioned

adverb

known

recognized or identified as

past participle

used to indicate the name or role someone/something has

preposition

English Dictionary

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