Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a 'first name' is expressed as 名前 (namae), but usage differs from English. Japanese people typically use family names with honorifics, and first names are reserved for close relationships. This guide explains how to refer to and use first names naturally.
The speaker wants to state or ask about their own given name (the name that is not the family name).
My first name is Taro.
Literally 'lower name', explicitly means 'first name' as opposed to family name. Used when clarification is needed.
Please call me by my first name.
Loanword from English, understood but less natural in most contexts. Used mainly in discussions about Western naming conventions.
What is your first name?
The speaker wants to ask another person for their given name.
Polite way to ask 'What is your name?'. In context, it can mean first name, but often the full name is given. To specify first name, use 下の名前.
What is your name?
Polite and explicit way to ask for someone's first name. Suitable for formal situations.
The speaker wants to know how to address someone by their first name in Japanese.
In Japanese culture, addressing someone by their first name is considered intimate and is only done between close friends, family, or lovers. In most situations, use family name + さん.
Using a first name with someone you are not close to can be seen as rude or overly familiar.
Good morning, Mr./Ms. Tanaka.
Among friends, classmates, or children, first names can be used with honorifics like さん (neutral/polite), くん (for boys/young men), or ちゃん (for girls/children/close friends).
Taro, let's play!
Dropping honorifics (呼び捨て) is reserved for very intimate relationships like spouses, family members, or very close friends. It can be rude if used inappropriately.
Avoid using 呼び捨て unless you are certain it's appropriate.
Taro, dinner's ready.
The speaker needs to know how 'first name' is referred to in bureaucratic contexts.
In English, using first names quickly is common. In Japanese, using someone's first name without permission can be intrusive. Wait until invited to use it, or use family name + さん.
Tanaka-san, how are you?
名前 (namae) is the general word for 'name' and can mean full name or given name depending on context. 下の名前 (shita no namae) explicitly means 'first name' and is used when you need to distinguish it from the family name.
Excuse me, but could you tell me your first name?
花子ちゃん、元気？
Hanako, how are you?
名前：
Name: