What’s your name Introduce in Japanese

What’s Your Name? — Introducing Yourself in Japanese

One of the first things people learn in Japanese is how to introduce themselves and ask someone’s name politely. Japanese introductions are usually simple, respectful, and friendly.

In this lesson, you will learn:

• Essential words for self-introduction

• A street conversation between Bob and Hokiru

• How to ask someone’s name

• How to say Mister, Mrs, Sir, and Madam in Japanese

Essential Word List

How to Insert Your Name

Structure:

わたしは [Your Name] です。
(Watashi wa [Your Name] desu.)
= I am [Your Name].

Ask the other person:

あなたは？
(Anata wa?)
= And you?

or

あなたの名前は何ですか？
(Anata no namae wa nan desu ka?)
= What is your name?

Example:

• わたしはジョンです。
  (Watashi wa Jon desu.)
  → I am John.

• あなたは？
  (Anata wa?)
  → And you?

Conversation — Bob and Hokiru Talking on the Street

Setting:

Bob and Hokiru meet for the first time while walking on a street in Japan. They greet each other politely and introduce themselves.

How to Say Mister, Mrs, Sir, and Madam in Japanese

Japanese uses honorific titles attached after names.

1. さん (San) — Mr. / Mrs. / Ms.

This is the most common and polite title.

Structure:

Name + さん

Examples:

Use さん when:

• meeting someone politely

• talking to customers

• speaking respectfully

2. 様 (Sama) — Sir / Madam (Very Respectful)

More formal than さん.

Structure:

Name + 様

Examples:

Use 様 (sama):

• customer service

• hotels

• formal letters

• business situations

3. 先生 (Sensei) — Teacher / Doctor / Professional

Used for respected professions.

Examples:

4. Avoid Using あなた Too Often

Although あなた (anata) means “you,” Japanese speakers often prefer using the person’s name + さん.

Instead of:

✗ あなたの名前は何ですか？
(What is your name?)

Japanese people often say:

✓ お名前は何ですか？
(Onamae wa nan desu ka?)
→ May I know your name?

This sounds more natural and polite.

Quick Practice

Introduce yourself in Japanese:

わたしは ______ です。
(Watashi wa ______ desu.)
I am ______.

Ask someone politely:

お名前は何ですか？
(Onamae wa nan desu ka?)
What is your name?

Reply:

よろしくお願いします。
(Yoroshiku onegaishimasu.)
Nice to meet you.