Similar sounding names - bad idea?

[welshhouse]

If I have a son I have to use the name Steven as a middle name - it's a family tradition. However, I really like the name Ethan as a first name and as it almost rhymes with Steven I don't think it sounds good. Should I add a second middle name, so it would be Ethan Something Steven? or does that sound silly too?
Any thoughts welcome.

Forgot to say, I also like the name Evan as a first name, so maybe that would sound better

Just don't have Steven as a middle name.

No to both. It's too close to Even Stevens either way.
Back to the drawing board, I'd say.

I like Ethan and Evan, it seems a pity to have to start again, due to not going with middle name. I'd just rebel and break the tradition.

I once knew a Darren Allen (then surname) which and he was never bothered also my DHs step grandad is Ken Penn! if you like Ethan or Evan use it . How often in RL do you actually use your middle name anyway? Beyond the naming of babies it rarely comes up IMO. Good luck choosing!

I agree with tiredteddy. Middle names are rarely used. If it really does bug you I'd go with a short extra middle name to break it up - Ethan John Steven for example.

I think if I add another middle name e.g. Ethan Daniel Steven (Surname) it might not be too bad?

Agree that I would use a second middle name to break it up.