I just don't think
Nathan is a nn for
Nathaniel. It doesn't come naturally, the vowel is different, and anyway
Nathan is good on its own.
If I had to choose,
Nat. I think
Nate is also for
Nathan.
I *adore*
Nathaniel, it may be my favourite boy's name. I'd hope that no one would shorten it because I can't think of any short form that moves me at all.
Both
Jacob and
Joshua are too overused for my liking, even in the mn spot.
Nathaniel Oliver would be lovely. Partly for my own sake (I do love this name!) here are my faves:
Nathaniel RexNathaniel MorganNathaniel HarveyNathaniel AnthonyNathaniel LennoxNathaniel Calvin