Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'surname' is expressed primarily through the word 名字 (myōji) or 姓 (sei). However, usage depends heavily on context, formality, and whether you are referring to your own name or someone else's. Japanese surnames come before given names, and the word for 'surname' itself is often omitted in natural conversation when asking for or giving names.
What is your surname?
Polite but direct. In casual conversation, 'お名前は？' is more natural.
My surname is Tanaka.
Simply stating your surname + です is the most natural way.
The most common, everyday word for 'surname' or 'family name'.
Natural ways to ask for a person's family name in conversation.
The most natural way to ask for someone's name in Japanese. It does not specify 'surname', but in context it usually refers to the family name, especially in formal situations. Literally 'Your name?'.
How to state your family name naturally.
The simplest way to give your surname is to say it followed by です. You do not need to say 'My surname is...' unless clarification is needed.
I'm Tanaka. / My surname is Tanaka.
Understanding that Japanese surnames come first, and how to clarify order.
In Japanese, the surname comes before the given name. If there is confusion, you can say 名字が先です (The surname comes first).
Referring to a woman's surname before marriage.
In Japanese, the family name comes first, followed by the given name. When introducing yourself, you usually give your full name with surname first, or just your surname in formal settings. The word 名前 (なまえ) can mean either full name or given name depending on context, so if you need to be specific, use 名字 for surname and 名前 for given name.
In natural conversation, Japanese speakers often omit the word 'surname' entirely. Asking 'お名前は？' or simply stating your name is more common than explicitly saying '名字は何ですか？' or '名字は田中です'. Use explicit terms only when clarification is needed.
Please write your surname here.
Please tell me your surname.
Please fill in your surname and given name.
Excuse me, what's your name?
Directly asks 'What is your surname?'. Grammatically correct but can sound a bit blunt; softer forms are preferred.
What is your surname?
A very polite, formal way to ask for someone's surname. Suitable for business or formal settings.
Excuse me, but may I ask your surname?
Explicitly states 'My surname is Tanaka'. Used when you need to distinguish between surname and given name.
My surname is Tanaka, and my given name is Taro.
In Japan, the surname comes first.
Means 'maiden name' or 'former surname'. Commonly used in official contexts.
My maiden name is Sato.
My surname is Smith.