RootsChat.Com
General => The Common Room => The Lighter Side => Topic started by: Milliepede on Thursday 16 November 17 11:02 GMT (UK)
-
I just can't get my head around "phonetically similar" versus "similar sounding" variations of a surname.
Can anyone explain simply what the difference is please?
Thank you
-
Must say I've wondered that myself. I can only assume that it includes names that are variations on the spelling of the name as well as names that sound similar.
-
"Phonetically Similar Variations" uses a metaphone algorithm.
"Similar Sounding Variations" uses a soundex algorithm.
See:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphone
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soundex
-
Can anyone explain simply
That's even more complicated :-\
Perhaps an example would help me differentiate.
Say the name Smith can sound like Piff would that be a soundex algorithm?
What would Smith be under the other option?
-
What would Smith be under the other option?
Smythe?
-
I too am confused. I think GRO could come up with something simpler for ordinary customers. I try one variation for the surname, and then perhaps the other one for the first name, get nothing, or names which seem to me nothing like the 'original' search name.....then I forget which option I've already done, get even more confused, repeat my search without meaning to, etc. etc.!!!
I'm glad it's not just me.
Melbell ::)
-
Soundex algorithms convert all words to a letter plus 3 digits ;D
So, Smith becomes S530 (5 represents M or N; 3 represents D or T; vowels and H are disregarded).
Both Soundex and Metaphone are intended for computer programs.
For example, we can easily distinguish between Smith, Smyth and Sinnott - but a computer doesn't see similarities (because it uses exact matching). Replacing the names by a code makes things easier (for the computer program!) but far from perfect. Smith, Smyth and Sinnott all have a Soundex code of S530.
Metaphone was developed to try to improve on this - but it is necessarily complicated!
I always use the Sounds Similar Variation on the GRO site.
I only use Phonetic Variations if I can't find what I want.
I also try not to mix-and-match!
I would rather search on a blank forename, and select from the results found.
-
I wish I hadn't asked ;D
but thank you :-*
-
Thanks for the explanation, KGarrad, I like knowing how things work.
-
vowels and H are disregarded
So if I'm searching for the name Hoe I won't get any matches.
-
The Wikipedia link I posted explains how it works! :-\
The initial letter is retained.
I would explain exactly how it works, but I am sure you are capable of reading the link for yourself?
-
I didn't know but all I can say is I have more success with "sounds similar..."
-
"Phonetically Similar Variations" uses a metaphone algorithm.
"Similar Sounding Variations" uses a soundex algorithm.
See:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metaphone
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soundex
Thank you.
BugBear