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This is a sub-page of Development:Pokémon Diamond and Pearl/Localization Glossaries.

The following information comes from the XLS sheet 007005_【DP】北米経緯FIX.xls, with translation notes appearing in [brackets].

Sub-Pages#

Category (分類)#

Rejected Names#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Ball Mouse

Plump Mouse

Literal translation.

Is there a word that means "chubby, fat"?

Glitter Eyes

Gleam Eyes

Literal translation.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Ele-Squirrel

EleSquirrel

"Ele" is a contraction of "Electric".
The meaning is conveyed by connecting the words with a hyphen.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Cherry Bloom

Blossom

Literal translation.

*Don't use (too many characters).

CherryBloom

Spaces have been removed due to the character limit.

*Don't use (removing spaces makes it harder to understand).

Mega Scorp

Ogre Scorp

Unfortunately, "Monster Scorpion" doesn't fit the character limit, so we'll go with "Mega Scorp."

Is "Mega" the only way to translate the "Monster" part? It's not just about meaning "big", but also a nuance of "unconventional" and "monstrous", so it's a no-go.

  • Would players find it natural if "Scorpion" and "Scorp" were used interchangeably?

Toxicant

Toxic Mouth

"Toxicant" means "poisonous substance".
If we go in the direction of "poisoning", it becomes a completely different word from "poison" in English, and if we go in the direction of "poison jabbing", it becomes the same as the move "Poison Jab".

Would it be difficult to create a pun on "poison" and "foul mouthed" [毒づ, lit "poison-mouthed"]?
If it seems difficult, please consider incorporating "thrusting" to the name.

Magnet Field

Magnet Area

Literal translation.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Celebratory

Jubilee

Literal translation.

"Celebratory" is the origin of Celebi's name, so a different word would be preferable.

Dragonfly

Ogre darner

Literal translation.

*Don't use (it's best to include the "ogre" [オニ] part).

○○ Dragonfly

It's difficult to express "Dragonfly" with a different word.
Originally, we wanted to say "○○ Dragonfly", but it's difficult to express "Ogre" (synonymous with "monster") in two words, space included. We think that "Dragonfly" will be the easiest for players to understand.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Crater

Lava dome

Literal translation.
→ When we hear the word "crater", we imagine a depression in a star, but for English speakers, does it first bring to mind a volcanic crater?
→There's no problem with the image of "crater."

*Don't use ("Lava dome" is better).

Skeletal

Renegade

Bone? Rebellious spirit [叛骨, lit "rebellious bone"]?

*Don't use ("Rebellious" has a good meaning).
[Giratina is known as the "Rebellious" Pokémon in Japanese.]

Quarter Moon

Lunar

Literal translation.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Oceanic

Sea Drifter

Literal translation.

*Don't use (we want it to be similar to Manaphy, not just in terms of looks and appearance).

Sea Drift

Seafaring

Literal translation.

*Don't use (we want it to be similar to Fione, not just in terms of looks and appearance).

Finalized Names#

Name

Explanation

Temporal

"Temporal" refers to time. It sounds cooler and more special than simply "Time", so we think it's a suitable category name for Dialga.

Spatial

"Spatial" refers to space. It sounds cooler and more special than simply "Space", so we think it's a suitable category name for Palkia.

Lava dome

It refers to a crater where lava is likely to erupt.

Renegade

It means "rebellious", and seems to fit Giratina's cool and strong image.
It gives off a mysterious impression, which also matches its Pokédex description:
"A Pokémon that is said to live in a world on the reverse side of ours".

Lunar

"みかづきのまい" became "Lunar Dance" and "みかづきのはね" became "Lunar Wing".

Alpha

A literal translation would be "Creation", but because that could be a religious issue, we came up with a different term.
"Alpha" is Greek, and means "the first of all things, the primary one".
The meaning is clear in English, and it gives a special impression.
It also matches its Pokédex description:
"[The] Pokémon that shaped the universe".
"[This] Pokémon was born before the universe even existed".

Moves (わざ)#

Rejected Names#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Embargoed

Embargo

A literal translation would be "seizing", but this also carries the nuance of "confiscation". Also, as the name of a Pokémon move, it would be considered legal terminology in English.
"Embargoed" means "prohibition or injunction", and given the move's effect, we believe this is easier to understand in English.

*Don't use ("Embargo" is easier to understand).

Poison Spikes

Toxic Spikes

In the move animation, lots of spikes fly out, so it would be natural to make it plural as "Spikes". However, "Poison Spikes" would exceed the character limit.
In the past, we have tried to express two words as one by removing the spaces, but this was also criticized from the player's perspective as:

  • being hard to read
  • looking unnatural
  • looking like a bug
    As a general rule, we want to always include a space in names that consist of two words.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Psy-Cutter

Psycho Cut

"Psy" is an abbreviation due to the character limit, but the meaning of "Psychic" is still conveyed well.

After careful consideration, it is preferable not to shorten the name.

Psycho Cutter

Literal translation.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Meteor Rain

Draco Meteor

We would like to check the in-game visuals, but we're not sure which Pokémon can learn it at what level. Could you please tell us?

"Draco Meteor" can be learned at Grandma Wilma's house on Route 210. It's a Dragon-type move, and the name also includes the meaning of "dragon".
[Known in Japanese as "りゅうせいぐん" (Ryūseigun),where "りゅう" (ryū) can be read as "dragon".]

Rock Cannon

Rock Wrecker

If it's a move that's in the same category as "Hydro Cannon" and "Flash Cannon", then the literal translation would be "Rock Cannon".

*Don't use. It's a move with similar strength to "Frenzy Plant", "Giga Impact", and "Roar of Time". You don't need to consider moves like "Hydro Cannon" here.

Crescent Dance

Lunar Dance

Since "Crescent" doesn't fit the character count, we decided to use "Lunar". It doesn't feel out of place as a move Cresselia would use.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Finalized Names#

Name

Explanation

Hammer Arm

"Hammer Arm" sounds better in English when you reverse the word order.
[Known as "Arm Hammer" (アームハンマー) in Japanese.]

Rock Polish

The English name for "いあいぎり" is "Cut", so we went with a different word instead.
[Known as "Rock Cut" (ロックカット) in Japanese.]

Flash Cannon

When Americans hear "Luster", they think of "luster" or "gloss", so as it stands it will be hard for them to picture a cool move name.
"Flash Cannon"is a strong, cool-sounding name, and fits this description below:
"The user gathers all its light energy and releases it at once."
[Known as "Luster Cannon" (ラスターカノン) in Japanese.]

Draco Meteor

"Meteor" refers to meteor showers, and "Draco" means "dragon" in Latin. There is also a constellation called "Draco". We considered giving the English name the meaning of both "meteor shower" and "dragon".

Rock Wrecker

"Wrecker" means "destroyer". It sounds strong.
[Known as "Rock Cannon" (がんせきほう) in Japanese.]

Gunk Shot

When Americans hear "Dust", they simply think of "dust", so the following description doesn't fit well:
"The user shoots filthy garbage at the foe to attack."

Since it's also a Poison-type move, we think "Gunk Shot" would be better. "Gunk" refers to something sticky, it also fits this move's animation.
[Known as "Dust Shoot" (ダストシュート) in Japanese.]

Head Smash

The word "double-edged" is used in English, but there isn't enough space to include it. It's also already used for in "Double-Edge" (すてみタックル). "Headbutt" is also used for a separate move.

We considered a name that would distinguish it from these two pre-existing moves, and also highlights its unique characteristics.
"Smash" is a word that has the nuance of both the attacker and defender taking damage, so "Head Smash" is close in meaning to the Japanese name.
[Known as "Double-Edged Headbutt" (もろはのずつき) in Japanese.]

Roar Of Time

"Roar" refers to a cry or howl. We thought "Time Roar" would be fine, but the three words "Roar of Time" give it a more special feel. Since it's a move Dialga can learn, we recommend it.

Spacial Rend

"Spacial" refers to space, and "Rend" means "to tear". "Rend" is a word with a strong impression, so we think it fits with a move Palkia can learn.
[Known as "Subspace Tear" (あくうせつだん) in Japanese.]

Lunar Dance

Since the word "Crescent" doesn't fit the character limit, we've decided to use "Lunar" instead. It doesn't feel out of place as a move Cresselia would use.
The wording has been standardized with the "Lunar Wing" item.
[Known as "Crescent Moon Dance" (みかづきのまい) in Japanese.]

Dark Void

In English, "Dark Hole" simply means "dark hole". We considered a name that would evoke the idea that it's a move unique to Darkrai. "Void" means "emptiness", which sounds cool.

Shadow Force

"Dive" is the same as the "Dive" Hidden Machine in English, so we'd like to use a different word to avoid any misunderstandings. "Force" means "power/energy", which is a little less specific about the move's properties, but makes for a striking, cool-sounding move name.
[Known as "Shadow Dive" (シャドーダイブ) in Japanese.]

Abilities (とくせい)#

Rejected Names#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Dawdle

Stall

"Dawdle" is a word that means "to waste time/to procrastinate".
There is no English word that corresponds exactly to the Japanese word for "Going After" [後出し], but we chose a word that clearly conveys the meaning of "to act slowly".

*Don't use (names with cowardly or cunning nuances are good).

Finalized Names#

Name

Explanation

Aftermath

Literally translated, "Aftermath" has the same nuance as "Chain Reaction" or "Second Explosion".

Solid Rock

"Hard Rock" first brings to mind music. As such, we think "Solid", which has the same meaning as "Hard", would be a good choice.
[Known in Japanese as "Hard Rock" (ハードロック).]

Items (どうぐ)#

Rejected Names#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Shadow Ball

Dusk Ball

If we were to translate it literally, as "Dark Ball", it would be reminiscent of "Dark type". As such, we would like to call it the "Shadow Ball".

*Don't use (there is a move with the same name).

Bean Jelly

Old Gateau

Literal translation of yokan.

It's a pun on the name of a location, the "Forest Manor" (Mori no Yokan). We'd like it to be named after that.

Keystone

Odd Keystone

Literal translation.

Fine as long as it has a spiritual feel. It's an item related to Spiritomb.

Diamond Orb

Adamant Orb

Since it's an item associated with Dialga, we think that "Diamond Orb" is most straightforward. What do you think? We think it matches the in-game visuals too.

Basically fine, but could we replace "Diamond" with "Adamantine" and "Pearl" with "Pearlescent "?
A slight twist for these names would be best.

Pearl Orb

Lustrous Orb

As mentioned above, this is an item associated with Palkia, so how about "Pearl Orb"? We think it matches the in-game visuals too.

Wise Specs

Wise Glasses

Literal translation.

"くろいメガネ" became "BLACKGLASSES", can the "glasses" part be standardized?

Toxic Sphere

Toxic Orb

Literal translation.

*Don't use (we want to use "Sphere" for the ones that can be found underground).

Toxic Ball

Literal translation.

In DP, there are a total of 17 types of Poké Balls, all of which are named "Ball" in English. If more items other than Poké Balls were named "Ball", it would be hard to distinguish them. We were concerned that this would be confusing for players.

Flame Sphere

Flame Orb

Literal translation.

*Don't use (we want to use "Sphere" for the ones that can be found underground).

Flame Ball

Literal translation.

In DP, there are a total of 17 types of Poké Balls, all of which are named "Ball" in English. If more items other than Poké Balls were named "Ball", it would be hard to distinguish them. We were concerned that this would be confusing for players.

Red String

Destiny Knot

Literal translation.

Does it convey the meaning of "red thread of fate" to represent the bond between a man and woman

Icy Stone

Icy Rock

If we were to translate it literally, as "Cold Stone", it would have the same name as a famous ice cream store chain in the United States. As such, we would like to call it the "Icy Stone", which we believe matches its intended effect.

We use "のいし" to distinguish it from "のいわ", which is related to evolution stones. Are there any other suitable words besides "stone"?

Smooth Stone

Smooth Rock

Literal translation.

Heat Stone

Heat Rock

Literal translation.

Damp Stone

Damp Rock

Literal translation. Damp means "wet, humid".

Choice glasses

Choice Specs

Literal translation.
We have standardized "XXX メガネ" to "XXX GLASSES".
In the past, the "Choice XXX" items have almost all had the same effect, as shown below:
When equipped, a given base value will increase, but you will only be able to use the same move.
These items having "Choice" in their names is necessary to help players understand their effect, and we think it is more important than the "Glasses" part.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Ele-Booster

Electirizer

Literal translation.

*Don't use (a name that is consistent with "Magmarizer" would be preferable).

Patch Disc

Dubious Disc

Just saying "patch" doesn't really convey its meaning. When checking the in-game visuals, it seems to depict a disc, so we'd like to call it the "Patch Disc".

Could it be possible to include "suspicious" to the name?

Poké Tracer

Poké Radar

Literal Japanese translation.

"Tracer" is generally used more in the sense of "to trace (a drawing)", and is not commonly used to mean "to search for, to track".

Plant Key

Works Key

Literal translation.

[None listed. Likely rejected for not being clear enough.]

Moon Feather

Lunar Wing

We understand that it's a special item tied to Cresselia. However, using "crescent" would exceed the character limit, so we chose "Moon". It's easy enough to associate, name-wise.

*Don’t use (we want to unify "はね" as "wing").

Crescent Feather

We understand that this is a special item for Cresselia.

*Don’t use (exceeds the character limit).

Crescent Wing

Crescent moon + Wing.

Visually, "feather" fits better, but to make items easier to understand on the player's end we want to standardize "はね" to "Wing". We want to emphasize "Crescent", but this would exceed the characters limit.

Finalized Names#

Name

Explanation

Odd Keystone

In English, it's very difficult to give a spiritual image to the word "keystone", because there is no concept of it being spiritual like in Japan.
It would have been best to use the word "Spitit"[sic], but it didn't fit the character limit, so we added "odd" (strange/suspicious) instead. This really gives it a certain vibe. It doesn't feel out of place for an item related to Spiritomb. What do you think?

Adamant Orb

"Adamant" means "very hard", but it can also mean "as hard as a diamond", and is a word used to refer to diamonds.

Lustrous Orb

"Lustrous" means "polished, glossy". When Americans hear the word "pearl", the first thing that comes to mind is "luster", and "lustrous" is the word that expresses that.
Along with "Adamant Orb", the names of these two "orbs" give a certain feel.

Poké Radar

This is an item for finding Pokémon, so it's called the "Poké Radar".
"Tracer" is generally used more in the sense of "to trace (a drawing)", and is not commonly used to mean "to search for, to track". "Radar" is definitely easier for players to understand.

Lunar Wing

Wz would like to standardize "はね" to "WING" ("にじいろのはね" became "RAINBOW WING"). It can also be standardized with the move "Lunar Dance" (みかづきのまい).
Visually, "feather" fits better, but to make items easier to understand on the player's end we want to standardize their names. Also, if a new item with "wing" in its name is added in the future, it's possible that "Feather" would exceed the character limit, so we'll go with "wing".

Azure Flute

"Azure" means "sky blue". "Azure Sky" refers to the deep blue sky, so we think the meaning is consistent.

People Names (人名)#

Rejected Names#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Lukas

Lucas

All characters in the game use real names, so we approached these two characters in the same manner. Furthermore, to foster familiarity among players, we carefully considered names that are not overly common, complex, nor rare, and maintain the balance that Hikari [Dawn] and Kouki [Lucas] have.

Regarding the support characters "Hikari" and "Kouki", both names were chosen with "the brilliance of diamonds and pearls" in mind. We hope that names with a similar feel will be used in the North American version as well.

Alissa

Dawn

Vivian

Vivian [ヴィヴィアン]
A real female name, which is reminiscent of "Vivid". In Japanese, when you hear the word "vivid", you might think of something that is brightly colored, but in English it is generally associated with "shining brightly".
Both "Vivid" and "Lucent" are also words that are often used to describe diamonds and pearls.

*Don't use. This character will also appear in the new anime series, so if possible, we would like to change it to a shorter, easier-to-remember name.

Team Galaxy

Team Galactic

"Galactic" means "of the galaxy".
We also considered "Team Galaxy", but there were issues on the legal side.
However, both have the same meaning, feel, and sound. It has the same feel as the Japanese name, "ギンガ団". We believe that "Team Galactic", which gives the same impression as the Japanese name, will be more easily accepted by English players.

If possible, we would like to use the direct Japanese translation of "Team Ginga". How does that sound in terms of image?

Team Ginga

When it comes to "Ginga", many people associate it with: 1. "Ginger", or 2. "Gengar" (for those who know Pokémon). As such, we have to say that many people will find "Team Ginga" a bit strange.
Some people also imagined it to be "Jenga"[*] (a block-stacking game).
In terms of pronunciation, "Ginger" is pronounced like "ginga", so "Ginga" can also be pronounced as "ginga" or "jinga". Also, the meaning of "galaxy" is not understood.

Masked Wake

Crasher Wake

Literal translation approach.

*Don’t use ("Crasher Wake" is better).

Biron

Byron

A male name. Type: Steel
It's reminiscent of "iron".
It has a heavy sound, and sounds just like the Japanese word "Dougan" [ドウガン]. It doesn't seem out of place as the name of someone relatively old (Roark's father).

*Don’t use ("Byron" is better).

Synthia

Cynthia

With her distinctive blonde hair and black coat, we considered a name that would be chic, elegant, and befitting of a champion.
Synthia (シンシア)
A real name.

*Don’t use ("Cynthia" is better).

Syrus

Cyrus

Syrus (サイラス)
A real name.
This name has the meaning of "sun", and bring to mind such an image.

*Don’t use ("Cyrus" is better).

Lisa

Bebe

[None listed.]

It's the name of the girl who manages the pc system in the Sinnoh region. We don't want her to have the same feel as Bill or Lanette.

Lana

Like previous names like "Bill" [from "Bill Gates"] and "Lanette" (Lan + net), these are real names that can also be associated with computer-related words.
This new name, "Lana", is also a real (female) name, and be associated with "Lan".
→There's no particular confusion between "Lana" and "Lanette."

*Don’t use ("BEBE" is better).

All five "Stat Trainers" have their final names in the "Rejected" column, with a comment asking for translation guidelines.

Name

Comment

Feedback

Cheryl

Regarding the names below, do you have any preferences as to what direction to take when naming them ?

It's fine to follow the Japanese etymology.
The Japanese names are unified with words related to rice or wheat.

Mira

Riley

Maybelle

Buck

Finalized Names#

Name

Explanation

Lucas

Lucas [ルーカス]
A real male name, reminiscent of the word "lucent". Both "Vivid" and "Lucent" are also words that are often used to describe diamonds and pearls.

Dawn

Dawn [(ドーン]
While it's a real female name, it also means "dawn" (when the morning sun shines). It gives the impression of a shining ray of hope. At the same time, it also means "(new) beginning" and "(new) generation/era," so we think it fits perfectly into the world of DP. It also pairs well with "Lucas".

Prof. Rowan

Rowan (the plant) is called "mountain ash" or "rowan tree" in English. First of all, "Ash" is Satoshi's English name, so it can't be used. "Rowan" refers to the rowan plant, but is also an actual (rare) first name. Also, since it has an old-fashioned feel to it, it matches Professor Rowan's age. Coincidentally, it seems to fit perfectly with the idea of ​​a literal translation.

Roark
(ローク)

The names of Gym Leaders and the Elite Four in the English version follow the same criteria as past titles: 1. They are real names, and 2. They evoke the type of Pokémon they possess. We have considered the same approach for this game as well.
A male name. Type: Rock

Gardenia
(ガーデニア)

A female name. Type: Grass
Reminiscent of Garden/Flower.

Maylene
(メイリーン)

A female name. Type: Fighting
Reminiscent of "Melee".

Wake
(ウェイク)

A female name. Type: Water
It means "Wake" (ripples on the water surface).
It's a strong-sounding name.

Crasher Wake

"Crasher Wake" sounds like a professional wrestler's ring name.

Fantina

A female name. Type: Ghost
Reminiscent of phantom/ghost.

Byron

A male name. Type: Steel
It's reminiscent of "iron".
It has a heavy sound, and sounds just like the Japanese word "Dougan" [ドウガン]. It doesn't seem out of place as the name of someone relatively old (Roark's father).
The meaning, pronunciation, and nuance remain unchanged.

Candice

A female name. Type: Ice
Reminiscent of "Ice".

Volkner

A male name. Type: Electric
Reminiscent of "Volt".

Aaron

A male name. Type: Bug
Reminiscent of "Arachnid".
Even though he's called after spiders, it's a real name that doesn't have negative connotations.

Bertha

A female name. Type: Ground
Reminiscent of "Ea[r]th".
It also matches the feel of an older woman.

Flint

A male name. Type: Fire
Reminiscent of "Flint".

Lucian

A male name. Type: Psychic
Reminiscent of "Lucid".
We think it also suits this trainer's smart-looking appearance with his glasses.

Cynthia

With her distinctive blonde hair and black coat, we considered a name that would be chic, elegant, and befitting of a champion.
Cynthia (シンシア)
A real name.
It feels like a natural spelling.
The meaning, pronunciation, and nuance remain unchanged.

Cyrus

Cyrus (サイラス).
A real name.
This name has the meaning of "sun", and bring to mind such an image.
It feels like a natural spelling.
The meaning, pronunciation, and nuance remain unchanged.

Cheryl

Like the other names, the following five characters are all real names, and like with the Japanese names, they can be associated with grains.
A female name.
Reminiscent of "cereal".

Mira

A female name.
"Meal" refers to "coarse meal (of grain)".

Riley

A male name.
Reminiscent of "Rice".

Maybelle

A female name.
Reminiscent of "barley".

Buck

A male name.
Reminiscent of "Buckwheat".

Bebe

Bebe (ビィビィ)
A real female name. Pronounced the same as "BB", an abbreviation of "Broadband".

Palmer

A male name.
It gives off a strong image.
It also brings to mind the word "palm".

Location Names (地名)#

Rejected Names#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Ruin Maniac Den

Ruin Maniac Cave

Literal translation.

Only in Gold and Silver did "Dragon's Den" use "Den" ("Dragon's Den" is an old (common) expression referring to where a dragon lives).
"Cave" is otherwise used, but would "Den" be more appropriate here?

Cycle Shop

Rad Rickshaw's Cycle Shop

Literal translation.

*Don't use ("Jitensha Jinriki's Cycle Shop" is its official name).

Department Store

Veilstone Dept. Store

"Veilstone Department Store" does not fit within the character limit.
However, we would like to use the full name wherever it can be displayed (in text).

Back in RS, "ミナモデパート=" became "LILYCOVE DEPT. STORE".

  • Don't use (we want to standardize the "department store" part).

Sunyshore Bazzar

Sunyshore Market

[None listed.]

Back in RS, "カイナいちば" became "SLATEPORT MARKET".

  • Don't use (we want to standardize the "market" part).

Flower Shop

Pick a Peck of Colors Flower Shop

[None listed.]

*Don't use ("Flower Shop Multicolor" is its official name).

Finalized Names#

Name

Explanation

Twinleaf Town

Twinleaf [ツウィンリーフ]
It evokes the image of something young, innocent and pure, just beginning to blossom.

Sandgem Town

Sandgem [サンドジェム]
From "Sand" and "Gem".
It sounds like a beautiful town by the sands.

Floaroma Town

Floaroma [フロアロマ]
From "Floral" and "Aroma" (a pleasant smell, fragrance).
We think it's perfect for a beautiful flower field.

Solaceon Town

Solaceon [ソレスィオン]
A combination of "solace" (relief/healing) and "eon" (eternity).
It gives the image of being able to live a carefree, leisurely life forever.
We think "eon" is also a fitting name for the nearby ruins, where Unown appear.

Celestic Town

Celestic [セレスティク])
A twist on "Celestial".

Jubilife City

Jubilife [ジュブライフ]
A combination of "Jubilee" (celebration, joy) and "Life."

Canalave City

Canalave [キャナレイブ]
A combination of "Canal" and "lave" (the action of water flowing, the flow of water).

Oreburgh City

Oreburgh [オーバーグ]
From "Ore".
"Burgh" is often used in city names, like Pittsburgh in the US and Johannesburg in South America.
It really conveys the idea of a "coal mining town".

Eterna City

Eterna [エターナ]
A twist on "Eternal".

Hearthome City

Hearthome [ハースォーム]
A combination of three words: "Hearth", "Heart", and "Home."
Hearth is a word that is very symbolic of people gathering together in American culture (and perhaps Western culture as a whole).
It makes you feel the connection between people.

Pastoria City

Pastoria [パストリア]
From "Pasture".
"Toria" is often used in city names, like Victoria.
When combined, it sounds better, sounding like the name of a city.

Veilstone City

Veilstone [ヴェイルストン]
From "Veil" and "stone".

  • A space surrounded by stone.
  • It has the nuance of not having much interaction with other places.

Sunyshore City

Sunyshore [サニショア]
A combination of "Sun", "Sunny", and "Shore".
The sun shining on the sea is such a beautiful image.

Snowpoint City

Snowpoint [スノーポイント]
The word that most closely reflects the meaning in English is "Point". However, when used alone, it can also be interpreted as meaning "pointing (with a finger)" or "score".
We combined it with snow, a characteristic of this city.

Old Chateau

"Chateau", as in a mansion or manor.
By naming it together with the item, you can create a joke in English that has the same nuance as in Japanese, where you obtain the "Forest Yokan" at the "Forest Manor".
The item name is called "Old Gateau" ("Gateau" is a chocolate cake).
You thus obtain an "Old Gateau" at the "Old Chateau".
Rather than simply saying "Gateau", adding "old" gives the impression that it is a rare and valuable item, and it also goes well with "Old Chateau".
Even though it's "old", it doesn't give the impression of being rotten.

Vista Lighthouse

"Vista" means "outlook (for the future)". It conveys the idea of a "beacon for the Pokémon League".

Spring Path

"Hidden Spring Path" exceeds the character limit. However, the word "Spring" is only used for "Sendoff Spring", so it avoids any confusion on the player's end.

Pokémon Mansion

It is the name of the mansion on Route 212. In Japanese, "mansion" [マンション] calls to mind a multi-story building, but the equivalent of this word in English is "Condominium".
→In English, "Mansion" refers to "a large house or building". "Pokémon Mansion" also matches its appearance.

Hallowed Tower

Hallowed is a word that carries connotations of "sacred" and "soul".
It perfectly matches the feel of names like "Odd Keystone" and "Spiritumb"[sic].

Goods (グッズ)#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Poké Center Table

Poké Table

Literal translation.

*Don’t use (it was found that this name would exceed the menu window).

PokéCen Table

Literal translation. Fits the character limit.

*Don’t use (exceeds the menu window).

Research Rack

Research Shelf

Literal translation.

Is there a clear difference between using "XXX shelf" and "XXX rack"?
Is it possible to standardize "XXX だな"?

Bike Shelf

Bike Rack

Literal translation.

*Don't use ("Shelf" sounds strange).

  • The difference between "XXX shelf" and "XXX rack" is difficult to explain clearly, as it's a matter of "sounding natural" for Americans, but in general it goes as follows:
    → ‘Shelf’ tends to evoke the image of holding smaller items compared to “rack.”
    →It gives the impression of being made up of planks, rather than a frame or mesh.
    → Compared to a "Shelf", "Rack" feels more like it holds larger items. Like a stainless steel rack, it suggests a frame or mesh structure.
    → However, this doesn't always apply. (For example, calling a mesh-like support a "Bike Shelf" feels awkward.)

●●shelf

Cupboard

Literal translation.

*Don't use ("Shelf" sounds strange).

  • The difference between "XXX shelf" and "XXX rack" is difficult to explain clearly, as it's a matter of "sounding natural" for Americans, but in general it goes as follows:
    → ‘Shelf’ tends to evoke the image of holding smaller items compared to “rack.”
    →It gives the impression of being made up of planks, rather than a frame or mesh.
    → Compared to a "Shelf", "Rack" feels more like it holds larger items. Like a stainless steel rack, it suggests a frame or mesh structure.
    → However, this doesn't always apply. (For example, calling a mesh-like support a "Bike Shelf" feels awkward.)

Sideboard

*Don’t use ("Cupboard" is more fitting).

Big TV

TV

Literal translation.

FIXed.

  • Don’t use (in Gold and Silver, it was "FEATHERY BED").

Fluffy Bed

FEATHERY BED

Literal translation.

FIXed.

  • Don’t use (in Gold and Silver, it was "FEATHERY BED").

Poké Center Flower

Poké Flower

Literal translation.

*Don’t use (it was found that this name would exceed the menu window).

PokéCen Flower

Literal translation. Fits the character limit.

*Don’t use (exceeds the menu window).

Ball Object

Ball Ornament

Literal translation.

*Don’t use ("オブジェ" means "Ornament").

Round Object

Round Ornament

Clear Object

Clear Ornament

Pretty Flowers

Dainty Flower

Literal translation.

*Don’t use (RS uses "PRETTY FLOWER" for a different item).

Cute Flowers

PRETTY FLOWER

Literal translation.

*Don’t use (in RS, it was "PRETTY FLOWER").

The entry for the Clever Cup also warrants an explanation: it is labeled here as one of the rejected names, with "Smart Cup" being preferred over it. However, the change seemingly never made it through, as this item is still called the "Clever Cup" in the final games. The remaining four cups fit their respective Super Contest category names (do note that "Smart" was only changed to "Clever years later, starting in ORAS).

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Clever Cup

Smart Cup

Literal translation. Unified with the contest category name.

*Don’t use. The discrepancy has been corrected as per GF's instruction. It would be better to unify it with the "Smart" contest category.[*]

Accessories (アクセサリ)#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Round Stone

Round Pebble

Literal translation.

*Don’t use (the evolution stones already use "-stone").

Round Rock

Literal translation. "Stone" has been changed to "Rock".

  • There are already existing items that use "Rock", such as the "Icy Rock."

If "Boulder" and "Pebble" feel natural, then those are preferable and should be used instead.

Glitter Stone

Glitter Boulder

Literal translation.

*Don’t use (the evolution stones already use "-stone").

Glitter Rock

Literal translation. "Stone" has been changed to "Rock".

  • There are already existing items that use "Rock", such as the "Icy Rock."

If "Boulder" and "Pebble" feel natural, then those are preferable and should be used instead.

Snaggy Stone

Snaggy Pebble

Literal translation.

*Don’t use (the evolution stones already use "-stone").

Snaggy Rock

Literal translation. "Stone" has been changed to "Rock".

  • There are already existing items that use "Rock", such as the "Icy Rock."

If "Boulder" and "Pebble" feel natural, then those are preferable and should be used instead.

Jagged Stone

Jagged Boulder

"Jagged", along with "Snaggy", means something rough (not smooth), but "Jagged" gives a larger impression.

*Don’t use (the evolution stones already use "-stone").

Jagged Rock

Literal translation. "Stone" has been changed to "Rock".

  • There are already existing items that use "Rock", such as the "Icy Rock."

If "Boulder" and "Pebble" feel natural, then those are preferable and should be used instead.

Black Stone

Black Pebble

Literal translation.

*Don’t use (the evolution stones already use "-stone").

Black Rock

Literal translation. "Stone" has been changed to "Rock".

  • There are already existing items that use "Rock", such as the "Icy Rock."

If "Boulder" and "Pebble" feel natural, then those are preferable and should be used instead.

Mini Stone

Mini Pebble

Literal translation.

*Don’t use (the evolution stones already use "-stone").

Mini Rock

Literal translation. "Stone" has been changed to "Rock".

  • There are already existing items that use "Rock", such as the "Icy Rock."

If "Boulder" and "Pebble" feel natural, then those are preferable and should be used instead.

Gutsy Determination

Determinatio

Literal translation.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Colorful Parasol

Colored Parasol

Literal translation.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Carnival Photo Board

Photo Board

Literal translation.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Scarlet Barrette

Red Barrette

Literal translation.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Windblown Headband

Heroic Headband

Literal translation.

*Don't use (too many characters).

Berries (きのみ)#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Chompo Berry

Chople Berry

"Chompoo" [rose apple] translates to "apple" in English, which feels awkward given the consistency of berry names. The original "chompoo" (Thai) sounds like a fruit name in English, so we think this works well here.

*Don't use (essentially, we want to standardize the names to ones that are twists of real names).

Badge (バッジ)#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Glacier Badge

Icicle Badge

We believe all the English names are derived from the Japanese ones, so there should be no problem with using the same names.

*Don't use (the "Ice Badge" that appears in Pokémon Gold and Silver is already known in English as the "Glacier Badge").

Frost Badge

From "Frost".

*Don’t use ("Icicle Badge" is better).

Fossils (カセキ)#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Hard Sphere

Prism Sphere

The item's name is "Kongoudama" [こんごうだま] (Adamant Orb). We understand that this "Kongoudama" [こんごうダマ] is an item that can only be used underground (different from the aforementioned "Kongoudama").
Just as Japanese distinguishes between "tama" written in hiragana and katakana, we would like to use the word "Sphere" in English as well, as opposed to "orb", to avoid player confusion.
"Hard" brings to mind diamonds.

*Don't use (we think that uncommon color names would be appropriate.)

Clear Sphere

A diamond is really just transparent in color. However, we feel that it lacks a special impression.

*Don't use (lacks a special impression).

Forms (すがた)#

Early Name

Final Name

Explanation

Reason for Rejection

Positive Form

Sunshine Form

Japanese approach.

*Don’t use. By using "Negative" and "Positive" in English, it may be mistaken for an "Electric-type" Pokémon.

Day Form

If Cherrim's form changes between day and night, it might be a good idea to call it Day/Night.

When the sun is strong, it will be in its "positive form", and in normal conditions or other types of weather it will be in its "negative form".
As a bud, it has a quiet personality, but when it blooms it becomes cheerful. Thus, we used "Positive/Negative".

  • Don’t use (different meaning).

Negative Form

Overcast Form

Japanese approach.

*Don’t use. By using "Negative" and "Positive" in English, it may be mistaken for an "Electric-type" Pokémon.

Night Form

If Cherrim's form changes between day and night, it might be a good idea to call it Day/Night.

When the sun is strong, it will be in its "positive form", and in normal conditions or other types of weather it will be in its "negative form".
As a bud, it has a quiet personality, but when it blooms it becomes cheerful. Thus, we used "Positive/Negative".

  • Don’t use (different meaning).