The Russian equivalent of the name William primarily exists in two forms, depending on the context and origin.
Primary Equivalents of William in Russian
The name William can be rendered in Russian in a couple of ways, reflecting both direct transliteration and historical linguistic connections.
| English Name | Russian Equivalent | Context and Usage |
|---|---|---|
| William | Вильям (Vilyam) | This is the direct transliteration of the English name. If someone in Russia bears this name from its English origin, it is commonly rendered as Вильям. |
| William | Вильгельм (Vilgelm) | This is the German version of the name (Wilhelm), which also exists and is recognized in Russian culture, often referring to historical figures or individuals with German heritage. |
Вильям is the straightforward phonetic adaptation for the English name William in contemporary Russian usage. Вильгельм serves as a recognized equivalent, particularly in historical or Germanic contexts, demonstrating the influence of European naming traditions on the Russian language.
