Introducing Myself In Simple English

What does “for short” mean in English?

For short means a shorter, easier form of a longer name or word. Many English names have a short form. Gregory becomes Greg for short. William becomes Will for short. You add the words “for short” after the short form to explain it. You can use it for words too: people say fridge for short instead of “refrigerator.” It is a simple, useful phrase when you meet new people.

In the clip a man says, “My name is Gregory or Greg for short.” He gives his full name and then the short, easy one. When you meet someone, you can do the same: “I’m Jonathan, or Jon for short.”