Does Signature Come Before Name?

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In the English language, it is common practice to sign one’s name as a way of indicating approval or agreement. However, there is some debate about the proper order in which to write a signature, specifically whether the signature should come before or after the name. In this article, we will explore this topic in more detail, discussing the arguments for each approach and the conventions followed in various contexts.

What is a Signature?

A signature is a unique mark, usually written in cursive, that serves as a person’s legal or personal identification. A signature can take many forms, from a simple scribble to a complex design, but it is generally accepted as an indication of the signer’s agreement or approval.

Signature Before Name

Some people prefer to write their signature before their name, arguing that this order is more logical and aesthetically pleasing. This approach is often seen in art, where signatures are frequently placed in the lower right-hand corner of a painting, drawing, or print.

Advantages of Signature Before Name:

  1. Aesthetics: Many people find that the signature looks more balanced and visually appealing when it is written first.
  2. Ease of Identification: Placing the signature first can make it easier to identify the author of a document or artwork, particularly when the signature is distinct or stylized.
  3. Tradition: In some cultures, it is traditional to write the signature first, such as in Chinese calligraphy, where the artist’s signature stamp is often placed before the name.

Signature After Name

Others argue that the name should come before the signature, as this order reflects the conventional structure of written language, where the name typically appears before any signature or mark.

Advantages of Signature After Name:

  1. Conventional Order: In the English language, the name typically comes before any signature or mark, making this order more conventional and expected.
  2. Legibility: Writing the name before the signature can make it easier to read and identify, particularly if the signature is complex or difficult to decipher.
  3. Legal Requirements: In many legal documents, such as contracts or agreements, the name must be written in full before any signature or mark, in order to clearly identify the parties involved.

Conventions in Different Contexts

The proper order of a signature can depend on the context in which it is used. For example:

  1. Artwork: In the art world, it is common practice to place the signature in the lower right-hand corner, either before or after the name, depending on the artist’s preference.
  2. Legal Documents: In legal documents, such as contracts or agreements, the name typically comes before the signature, in order to clearly identify the parties involved and meet legal requirements.
  3. Personal Correspondence: In personal letters or notes, the signature can come before or after the name, depending on personal preference or convention.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the order of a signature can be a matter of personal preference or convention, with some people preferring to write the signature before the name and others preferring the opposite. While there are arguments for both approaches, the proper order can depend on the context in which the signature is used, with legal documents typically requiring the name to come before any signature or mark. Ultimately, the most important thing is that the signature is clear, legible, and represents the signer’s agreement or approval.