Translation guide
How to ask for or give someone's name in Japanese, including self-introduction and addressing others.
Excuse me, what is your name?
Casual but still polite way to ask 'Your name?'. Often used when the context is clear.
Nice to meet you, your name?
Very casual, used among friends or children. Can sound blunt.
Hey, what's your name?
The speaker wants to tell someone their name.
The standard way to say 'I am [Name]'. Simply state your name followed by です.
Nice to meet you, I'm John.
Literally 'I am called [Name]'. Slightly more formal and polite than just です.
My name is Tanaka. (humble)
Humble form used in very formal introductions, such as business settings.
I am Tanaka. (very formal)
The speaker wants to mention another person's name.
Standard way to say '[Person]'s name is [Name]'.
His name is Tanaka.
Means '[Person] is called [Name]'. Slightly more natural in some contexts.
She is called John.
The speaker wants to know who they are speaking to, often in a service context.
Polite way to ask 'Who is this?' or 'May I ask who's calling?' on the phone or at the door.
Hello, who is this?
The speaker wants to discuss the word 'name' itself.
In English, we often say 'Your name?' but in Japanese, directly translating to 'あなたの名前' can sound unnatural or even rude. Use 'お名前' instead, which is the polite form.
In Japanese, it's common to use a person's name instead of 'you' or 'he/she'. Once you know someone's name, use it with an appropriate suffix like さん.
Are you a student, Tanaka?
ジョンと言います。
I'm called John.
会社の名称を教えてください。
Please tell me the name of the company.