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Baby names

Find baby name inspiration and advice on the Mumsnet Baby Names forum.

Ralph pronounced Rafe, are we setting ourselves up for a lifetime of correcting pronunciation?

154 replies

WelshTash · 14/06/2026 14:12

We love the name Rafe but have recently found out the correct spelling of this is Ralph. My concern is, if we name our son Ralph he will forever be mispronounced as “Ralf”. We wanted to avoid a name that required constant correcting.

I wondered if a formal name of Rafael / Raphael, but a “known as” Rafe, is a better approach than Ralph? I want Rafe to be more than a nickname though.

I wondered if anyone with a Rafe or, a Ralph pronounced “Rafe”, could offer us their experience?

OP posts:
Are your children’s vaccines up to date?
Emelene · 14/06/2026 14:15

Yes I think you would be. What is incorrect about Rafe? Rafael is a lovely name.

GreatOffWhiteFalcon · 14/06/2026 14:15

Yes.

Dizzydrizzy · 14/06/2026 14:14

I know one spelt Rafe. His parents didn’t want Ralph either.

WhatHappenedToYourFurnitureCuz · 14/06/2026 14:14

Of course you are.