Nom de plume (French for "pen name")
* Historically accurate: This is the original and most accurate term for a pen name. It's often used when discussing authors who used pen names in the past, like George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans) or Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens).
* Formal context: In scholarly writing, "nom de plume" might be preferred due to its traditional usage.
* Distinguishing from pseudonym: Sometimes "nom de plume" is used to highlight that the pen name is a stylistic choice, as opposed to a pseudonym used for privacy or secrecy.
Alternatives
* Pen name: This is the most common and straightforward term for a chosen name used by an author. It's generally appropriate in most situations.
* Pseudonym: Used for a false name adopted for anonymity or to conceal identity.
* Byline: This refers to the name used on published works. It's not specifically about a pen name, but might be used in context.
When to choose an alternative:
* Modern usage: "Pen name" is widely understood and used for both historical and contemporary writers.
* Specificity: "Pseudonym" might be necessary if you want to emphasize the reason for the pen name (privacy, anonymity, etc.).
* Clarity: If you're discussing someone who used a pen name for a specific reason, like protecting their identity, using "pseudonym" can be more precise.
Ultimately, the best term depends on the context, your intended audience, and the degree of formality you desire.