Robert Allen, American pianist and composer (d. 2000)

The name Robert Allen, along with its widely recognized diminutives and nicknames such as Bob Allen, Bobby Allen, or Robbie Allen, represents a common linguistic phenomenon where a single name or its variations can refer to multiple distinct individuals. This introductory statement serves as a crucial navigational tool, typically found at the beginning of a disambiguation page.

In linguistics and on reference platforms like encyclopedias, a "disambiguation page" is a specialized entry designed to help users identify the specific person or concept they are seeking when a term is identical or very similar to others. The given phrase signals to the reader that several notable people have been identified who bear one of these name combinations, necessitating a clear differentiation.

The Prevalence of the Name "Robert" and Its Variations

The name "Robert" itself has deep historical roots, deriving from Old Germanic elements meaning "bright fame." It has consistently been one of the most popular given names for males in English-speaking countries for centuries, often ranking among the top names in various demographic surveys. This sustained popularity naturally leads to a significant number of individuals sharing the name, making disambiguation essential.

Furthermore, the use of diminutives like "Bob," "Bobby," and "Robbie" is a common practice, adding another layer to the complexity of identification. These nicknames are often used informally or even formally throughout an individual's career or public life, making it necessary to consider all these variations when searching for a specific person. For example, a professional athlete might be universally known as "Bobby Allen" even if their legal name is Robert.

Purpose of This Disambiguation Entry

The primary purpose of an entry beginning with "Bob, Bobby, Robbie or Robert Allen may refer to:" is to act as a gateway. It indicates that following this statement, there will be a meticulously compiled list detailing each individual who is known by one of these names. Each entry in this subsequent list would typically provide brief, identifying information, such as their profession, nationality, key achievements, or significant contributions, to enable the user to quickly locate the correct person. This structured approach prevents confusion and ensures precise information retrieval for the user.

Frequently Asked Questions About Name Disambiguation

Why is disambiguation necessary for common names like Robert Allen?
Disambiguation is crucial because certain names, particularly those with historical popularity like "Robert," are shared by a vast number of people across different eras, professions, and geographical locations. Without disambiguation, searching for a common name could yield results pertaining to many unrelated individuals, making it difficult or impossible to find the specific person of interest. It ensures clarity and accuracy in information retrieval.
What is the difference between a "name" and a "diminutive" or "nickname"?
A "name" typically refers to the full, formal given name (e.g., Robert). A "diminutive" or "nickname" is a shortened, informal, or affectionate form of a given name (e.g., "Bob" or "Bobby" for Robert). While diminutives are often used casually, they can become the primary way an individual is known publicly, leading to the need for their inclusion in disambiguation entries to cover all possibilities.
How can I identify the specific "Robert Allen" I am looking for?
To identify the correct "Robert Allen," you would typically review the list that follows this introductory statement on a disambiguation page. Each entry on that list provides distinguishing details, such as their profession (e.g., "Robert Allen, American author"), their field of expertise (e.g., "Bobby Allen, former professional hockey player"), or a notable achievement. By matching these details with what you know about the person you're seeking, you can pinpoint the correct individual.