Asian-Americans: Why do you often change your Asian names to American names?

Question

I noticed that all Asian Americans born here in the U.S, have an American name (English), and still carry their Asian last names, Example, Nguyen, Allan. Or Jonathan etc, even the females. I meant, no disrespect and I understand you have the right to do what EVER YOU WANT, but I am just curious.

Answer 1

I'm not Asian, but I have Asian friends. I've asked them this same question. They told me it's a matter of pronunciation. They know that Westerners have trouble pronouncing their original names, so they take up Western names. Many Asians choose not to adapt a Western name. One of my friends kept his original name, simply because it's easy for Westerners to pronounce!

Answer 2

you didnt have a name change, if you were born here, you were given a first name ,when asian become american it a whole new start, why would they give a name in another language,people wouldnt understand? if you change your last name your saying to your family that last name not good enought,that name get past on It the same for you, see what your father will say if you try to change your last name

Answer 3

Yeah I think its a pronounciation thing.

But its not only asian-americans, other cultures do this as well for the same reasons.

For example, Greeks names are hard to pronounce also, so they have "american" names they use also.

Answer 4

It is very common for first and second generation Americans of all races and ethnicities. With Americans of European descent, it isn't always obvious because American names ARE European but think when was the last time you met a woman named Borghild?

Answer 5

Don't want see Americans struggle to pronounce some foreign names. Americanizing the names also makes it easier to be one of the croud and learn the culture with ease.

Answer 6

Asians like to ape Western culture which includes adding English names to their real names.

Answer 7

i'm not sure if i understood the quesiton...i'm an asian canadian, born in canada and received an english name at birth. i think most asian ppl born in n america are named with an english name and their asian names as middle names.

Answer 8

I didn't change my first name to an "American" name, it was just the name given to me.

Answer 9

There is a saying: "When you are in Rome, act and do what the Romans doing". As simple as that. They want to establish their true identity besides being an american.

Answer 10

coz most Americans can't pronounce our asian names.