What are common Taiwanese names?

Answered by Willian Lymon

The most common family names in Taiwan are CHEN (陳), LIN (林), HUANG (黄), CHANG (張), and LI or LEE (李). These names have deep historical and cultural roots in Taiwan and are shared by a significant number of people across the island.

The family name CHEN (陳) is the most common surname in Taiwan. It is derived from the Chinese character “陳,” which means “to exhibit” or “to display.” Many Taiwanese with the surname CHEN can trace their ancestry back to the mainland Chinese province of Fujian. The CHEN family has a long history in Taiwan and has made significant contributions to various fields, including politics, business, and academia.

LIN (林) is another prevalent family name in Taiwan. It means “forest” or “woods” and symbolizes the connection to nature and the environment. Like CHEN, many LIN families can trace their roots to Fujian province. The LIN surname is associated with a diverse range of professions, including medicine, education, and the arts.

HUANG (黄) is a common family name in Taiwan, derived from the Chinese character meaning “yellow.” The HUANG family has a rich history and is known for its contributions to Taiwanese society. Many HUANG individuals have excelled in fields such as entrepreneurship, technology, and entertainment.

CHANG (張) is another frequently encountered surname in Taiwan. It is derived from the Chinese character “張,” which means “to stretch” or “to extend.” The CHANG family has a long-standing presence in Taiwan and has produced notable figures in politics, military, and academia.

LI or LEE (李) is a widely seen family name in Taiwan, as well as in other Chinese-speaking regions. It is derived from the Chinese character “李,” which represents the plum tree. The LI/Lee family has a long history in Taiwan and has made significant contributions to various fields, including literature, business, and the arts.

In addition to these common family names, there are many other less prevalent surnames in Taiwan, reflecting the diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds of its population. Some examples include WANG (王), WU (吳), HSU (許), YANG (楊), and LIU (劉).

It is important to note that while these surnames are common in Taiwan, they are not exclusive to the country. Many of these family names can be found in other Chinese-speaking regions and communities around the world.

The most common family names in Taiwan are CHEN, LIN, HUANG, CHANG, and LI or LEE. These surnames have deep historical roots in Taiwan and are shared by a significant number of people across the island.