Tips for Naming Characters and Places in Your Story

Sometimes the story seems to write itself. Other times, that's not the case. So, what happens when the names don't come to you?

A good name is one that has meaning. It shows atmosphere, culture, and creates first impressions for other characters and your readers. Names help us remember people and the world.

Here are some tips on creating names that are meaningful and believable.

Make Your Names Readable

A name that's unique is great, don't get me wrong! One thing I still can't get behind is a name I can't read. If I can't figure out how to pronounce it, I'm likely calling the characters by the first letter of their names because it's easier.

As an author, that's a bad sign. Keep your names recognizable, but not overly complicated. Avoid an excessive number of syllables, or ones with too many unusual symbols. The easier to read, the less time your reader needs to spend pausing each time they come upon a character's name!

Do The Names Represent Your World?

Language, location, and upbringing can influence how you structure names in your story. Names become more believable when they reflect the culture and history of your world. What are some language patterns of different regions? Do traditions influence names? How do names show status? Ancestry?

Some examples may include: a kingdom with harsh climates where the names have sharper consonants, or a city with trade where names are diverse.

Say Your Names Out Loud

Will you look a little silly? Maybe, but it's for a good cause!

The same way reading your work aloud will help you find awkward dialogue and descriptions, it can also help you find risky name choices. You'll be able to notice repetition in names and if they fit the emotional tone of a scene.

Don't Force Your Name to be 'Fantasy'

Making a name sound too unique can lead us back to step one. Not everything has to have a dramatic name or title. Not everyone has to have an insane name. Ordinary names can be magical too!

Give your world variation in names. This will make it feel more natural and will avoid any confusion for your readers.

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That's all for now, readers! I hope these tips will help in your writing excursions, and I hope you have a wonderful Saturday <3.