Definition

Adverb: Used to indicate that a shorter, usually familiar, form of a name or phrase is being used instead of the full, formal version.

Usage

The phrase "for short" is used after stating a shortened version of a name, term, or title. It clarifies that the preceding word or phrase is an abbreviation, nickname, or condensed form. It is typically used in informal or conversational contexts.

Examples

• "Her name is Katherine, but everyone calls her Kate for short."
• "The organization's full name is the World Health Organization, or WHO for short."
• "His real name is Robert, but he goes by Rob for short."

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can be used with acronyms and initialisms to signal their abbreviated nature, even when the abbreviation is very common.
  • Example: "The file is in Portable Document Format, PDF for short."
• It can sometimes imply a casual or affectionate relationship with the subject.
  • Example: "This is Alexander, my best friend—Alex for short."

Variants and Related Words

• Abbreviated: Shortened in form.
• Nickname: A familiar or humorous name given to a person or thing instead of or as well as the real name.
• Aka (also known as): Used to introduce an alternative name.

Synonyms

• As an abbreviation
• Informally
• To abbreviate

Related Phrases

• Known as: Used to indicate what someone or something is called.
  • Example: "The compound, known as H₂O, is essential for life."
• Or rather: Used to correct or specify a previous statement, sometimes introducing a shorter form.
  • Example: "We need to discuss the quarterly report—or rather, the Q3 report." (Note: This is not a direct synonym but a related structure for clarification.)

Adverb

1. as an abbreviation
   • call me Bob for short