What is Your Name in Spanish?

Have you ever wondered how to ask someone their name in Spanish? If you're planning a trip to a Spanish-speaking country or want to communicate with someone from a Spanish-speaking background, knowing how to ask someone their name is a polite and essential way to start a conversation.

In Spanish, the question "What is your name?" can be asked in two different ways, depending on the level of formality. The informal way is "¿Cómo te llamas?" (pronounced: "koh-moh teh yah-mas?") and is typically used when speaking to friends, family, or children. The formal way is "¿Cómo se llama?" (pronounced: "koh-moh seh yah-ma?") and is used when speaking to someone you don't know well or in a more formal setting.

Now that you know how to ask someone their name, let's explore some additional phrases and tips for introducing yourself and making conversation in Spanish.

what is your name in spanish

Asking someone's name is a polite way to start a conversation in Spanish.

• Informal: "¿Cómo te llamas?"
• Formal: "¿Cómo se llama?"
• Pronunciation: "koh-moh teh yah-mas?"
• Pronunciation: "koh-moh seh yah-ma?"
• Used with friends, family, children
• Used with acquaintances, strangers
• Respond with your name
• Add "mucho gusto" for "nice to meet you"
• Shake hands or kiss on the cheek
• Smile and be friendly

Learning these phrases will help you make a good impression and start conversations confidently in Spanish.

Informal: "¿Cómo te llamas?"

The informal way to ask someone their name in Spanish is "¿Cómo te llamas?" (pronounced: "koh-moh teh yah-mas?"). This question is typically used when speaking to friends, family, children, or people you are familiar with.

To use this phrase, simply say "¿Cómo te llamas?" to the person you are addressing. Be sure to use the correct pronunciation, with emphasis on the words "cómo" and "llamas." You can also add a friendly smile and a nod to show that you are being polite and approachable.

When someone asks you "¿Cómo te llamas?", the appropriate response is to state your name clearly and confidently. You can simply say your first name, or you can say your full name if you prefer. For example, you might say "Me llamo Juan" or "Me llamo María González."

After you have exchanged names, it is common to add the phrase "mucho gusto" (pronounced: "moh-choh goo-stoh"), which means "nice to meet you." This is a polite way to show that you are pleased to have met the person and that you are open to further conversation.

By following these tips, you can use the informal phrase "¿Cómo te llamas?" to ask someone their name in Spanish in a friendly and respectful manner.

Formal: "¿Cómo se llama?"

The formal way to ask someone their name in Spanish is "¿Cómo se llama?" (pronounced: "koh-moh seh yah-ma?"). This question is typically used when speaking to someone you don't know well, someone in a position of authority, or in a more formal setting, such as a business meeting or a job interview.

• Use with acquaintances, strangers, or people in positions of authority
  

  When you are meeting someone for the first time, or when you are speaking to someone in a formal setting, it is best to use the formal phrase "¿Cómo se llama?" to show respect.

• Pronunciation
  

  Be sure to pronounce the phrase correctly, with emphasis on the words "cómo" and "llama." You can also add a slight nod or bow to show that you are being polite and respectful.

• Respond with your full name
  

  When someone asks you "¿Cómo se llama?", the appropriate response is to state your full name clearly and confidently. This is especially important in a formal setting, where it is expected that you will use your full name.

• Add "mucho gusto" for "nice to meet you"
  

  After you have exchanged names, it is common to add the phrase "mucho gusto" (pronounced: "moh-choh goo-stoh"), which means "nice to meet you." This is a polite way to show that you are pleased to have met the person and that you are open to further conversation.

By following these tips, you can use the formal phrase "¿Cómo se llama?" to ask someone their name in Spanish in a respectful and professional manner.

Pronunciation: "koh-moh teh yah-mas?"

The informal phrase "¿Cómo te llamas?" is pronounced as follows:

• "koh-moh"
  

  The first word, "cómo," is pronounced with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "o" is pronounced like the "o" in "cot." The "m" is pronounced with the lips together, as in the English word "mom."

• "teh"
  

  The second word, "te," is pronounced with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "e" is pronounced like the "e" in "bed." The "t" is pronounced with the tongue against the roof of the mouth, as in the English word "top."

• "yah-mas"
  

  The third word, "llamas," is pronounced with the emphasis on the second syllable. The "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "father." The "ll" is pronounced with the tongue against the roof of the mouth, as in the English word "yes." The "s" is pronounced with the tip of the tongue against the teeth, as in the English word "sin."

To practice pronouncing the phrase, try saying it aloud several times. You can also listen to audio recordings of native Spanish speakers saying the phrase to get a better idea of how it should sound.

Pronunciation: "koh-moh seh yah-ma?"

The formal phrase "¿Cómo se llama?" is pronounced as follows:

• "koh-moh"
  

  The first word, "cómo," is pronounced with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "o" is pronounced like the "o" in "cot." The "m" is pronounced with the lips together, as in the English word "mom."

• "seh"
  

  The second word, "se," is pronounced with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "e" is pronounced like the "e" in "bed." The "s" is pronounced with the tip of the tongue against the teeth, as in the English word "sin."

• "yah-ma"
  

  The third word, "llama," is pronounced with the emphasis on the second syllable. The "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "father." The "ll" is pronounced with the tongue against the roof of the mouth, as in the English word "yes." The "m" is pronounced with the lips together, as in the English word "mom."

To practice pronouncing the phrase, try saying it aloud several times. You can also listen to audio recordings of native Spanish speakers saying the phrase to get a better idea of how it should sound.

Used with friends, family, children

The informal phrase "¿Cómo te llamas?" is typically used when speaking to friends, family, and children. This is because it is a more casual and friendly way to ask someone their name. Using the formal phrase "¿Cómo se llama?" with friends, family, or children may sound too formal or distant.

When using "¿Cómo te llamas?" with friends, family, or children, it is important to be friendly and approachable. Smile, make eye contact, and use a warm and friendly tone of voice. You can also add a friendly gesture, such as a handshake or a hug, to show that you are happy to meet the person.

Here are some examples of how you might use "¿Cómo te llamas?" with friends, family, and children:

• To a new friend: "Hola, ¿cómo te llamas? Me llamo [your name]." (Hello, what's your name? My name is [your name].)
• To a family member: "¿Cómo te llamas, primita? Hace mucho que no te veo." (What's your name, little cousin? I haven't seen you in a long time.)
• To a child: "Hola, niño. ¿Cómo te llamas? Soy tu nuevo maestro." (Hello, child. What's your name? I'm your new teacher.)

By using "¿Cómo te llamas?" in a friendly and approachable way, you can start conversations and build relationships with friends, family, and children in Spanish.

Used with acquaintances, strangers

The formal phrase "¿Cómo se llama?" is typically used when speaking to acquaintances, strangers, or people in positions of authority. This is because it is a more polite and respectful way to ask someone their name. Using the informal phrase "¿Cómo te llamas?" with acquaintances, strangers, or people in positions of authority may sound too casual or disrespectful.

When using "¿Cómo se llama?" with acquaintances, strangers, or people in positions of authority, it is important to be polite and respectful. Make eye contact, speak clearly and slowly, and use a formal tone of voice. You should also avoid using slang or informal language.

Here are some examples of how you might use "¿Cómo se llama?" with acquaintances, strangers, or people in positions of authority:

• To a new acquaintance: "Hola, ¿cómo se llama? Mucho gusto." (Hello, what's your name? Nice to meet you.)
• To a stranger on the street: "Disculpe, ¿cómo se llama la calle más cercana?" (Excuse me, what's the name of the nearest street?)
• To a person in a position of authority: "Buenos días, señor. ¿Cómo se llama?" (Good morning, sir. What's your name?)

By using "¿Cómo se llama?" in a polite and respectful way, you can show that you are interested in the person you are speaking to and that you value their time.

Respond with your name

When someone asks you "¿Cómo te llamas?" or "¿Cómo se llama?", the appropriate response is to state your name clearly and confidently.

• Use your first name or full name
  

  You can respond with your first name only, or you can respond with your full name, depending on the situation. In a formal setting, it is best to use your full name. In a more casual setting, you can use your first name only.

• Speak clearly and confidently
  

  When you state your name, speak clearly and confidently so that the other person can hear you easily. Make eye contact and smile to show that you are friendly and approachable.

• Add "mucho gusto" for "nice to meet you"
  

  After you have stated your name, you can add the phrase "mucho gusto" (pronounced: "moh-choh goo-stoh"), which means "nice to meet you." This is a polite way to show that you are pleased to have met the person and that you are open to further conversation.

• Shake hands or kiss on the cheek
  

  In some cultures, it is customary to shake hands or kiss on the cheek when meeting someone for the first time. If you are unsure of what to do, you can simply follow the other person's lead.

By following these tips, you can respond to the question "¿Cómo te llamas?" or "¿Cómo se llama?" in a polite and friendly manner.

Add "mucho gusto" for "nice to meet you"

After you have stated your name in response to the question "¿Cómo te llamas?" or "¿Cómo se llama?", you can add the phrase "mucho gusto" (pronounced: "moh-choh goo-stoh"), which means "nice to meet you."

Saying "mucho gusto" is a polite and friendly way to show that you are pleased to have met the person and that you are open to further conversation. It is also a way to show respect for the other person.

Here are some examples of how you might use "mucho gusto" in a conversation:

• Informal:

  Person A: "¿Cómo te llamas?" (What's your name?)
  Person B: "Me llamo Juan. Mucho gusto." (My name is Juan. Nice to meet you.)

• Formal:

  Person A: "¿Cómo se llama?" (What's your name?)
  Person B: "Me llamo María González. Mucho gusto." (My name is María González. Nice to meet you.)

You can also use "mucho gusto" when you are introduced to a group of people. Simply say "Mucho gusto a todos" (Nice to meet you all).

By adding "mucho gusto" to your response when someone asks you your name, you can show that you are friendly, respectful, and open to conversation.

Shake hands or kiss on the

Smile and be friendly

When you ask someone their name in Spanish, it is important to smile and be friendly. This will help to create a positive and welcoming atmosphere and show that you are interested in getting to know the person.

• Make eye contact
  

  When you ask someone their name, make eye contact with them. This shows that you are paying attention to them and that you are interested in what they have to say.

A smile is a universal sign of friendliness and openness. When you smile at someone, you are showing them that you are happy to meet them and that you are approachable.

When you ask someone their name, use a friendly and welcoming tone of voice. This will help to put the person at ease and make them more likely to respond positively.

If the person you are asking your name to does not understand you right away, be patient. Repeat your question slowly and clearly, and try to use simple language. You can also try using gestures to help the person understand what you are saying.

By following these tips, you can show that you are friendly and approachable, and you can increase the likelihood of the person responding positively to your question.

FAQ

Have a question about asking someone their name in Spanish? Check out these frequently asked questions (FAQs) for answers.

Question 1: What is the informal way to ask someone their name in Spanish?
Answer 1: The informal way to ask someone their name in Spanish is "¿Cómo te llamas?" (pronounced: "koh-moh teh yah-mas?"). This question is typically used when speaking to friends, family, or people you are familiar with.

Question 2: What is the formal way to ask someone their name in Spanish?
Answer 2: The formal way to ask someone their name in Spanish is "¿Cómo se llama?" (pronounced: "koh-moh seh yah-ma?"). This question is typically used when speaking to someone you don't know well, someone in a position of authority, or in a more formal setting.

Question 3: How do I pronounce "¿Cómo te llamas?"?
Answer 3: "¿Cómo te llamas?" is pronounced as follows:

• "koh-moh" - The first word, "cómo," is pronounced with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "o" is pronounced like the "o" in "cot." The "m" is pronounced with the lips together, as in the English word "mom."
• "teh" - The second word, "te," is pronounced with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "e" is pronounced like the "e" in "bed." The "t" is pronounced with the tongue against the roof of the mouth, as in the English word "top."
• "yah-mas" - The third word, "llamas," is pronounced with the emphasis on the second syllable. The "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "father." The "ll" is pronounced with the tongue against the roof of the mouth, as in the English word "yes." The "s" is pronounced with the tip of the tongue against the teeth, as in the English word "sin."

Question 4: How do I pronounce "¿Cómo se llama?"?
Answer 4: "¿Cómo se llama?" is pronounced as follows:

• "koh-moh" - The first word, "cómo," is pronounced with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "o" is pronounced like the "o" in "cot." The "m" is pronounced with the lips together, as in the English word "mom."
• "seh" - The second word, "se," is pronounced with the emphasis on the first syllable. The "e" is pronounced like the "e" in "bed." The "s" is pronounced with the tip of the tongue against the teeth, as in the English word "sin."
• "yah-ma" - The third word, "llama," is pronounced with the emphasis on the second syllable. The "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "father." The "ll" is pronounced with the tongue against the roof of the mouth, as in the English word "yes." The "m" is pronounced with the lips together, as in the English word "mom."

Question 5: What should I say after someone tells me their name?
Answer 5: After someone tells you their name, you can say "mucho gusto" (pronounced: "moh-choh goo-stoh"), which means "nice to meet you." You can also add a friendly gesture, such as a handshake or a smile.

Question 6: What if I don't understand what someone says when they tell me their name?
Answer 6: If you don't understand what someone says when they tell you their name, you can politely ask them to repeat it. You can also try asking them to write it down for you.

We hope this FAQ has answered your questions about asking someone their name in Spanish. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.

Now that you know how to ask someone their name in Spanish, check out these additional tips for making a good impression and starting conversations confidently.

Tips

Here are some practical tips for asking someone their name in Spanish in a friendly and respectful manner:

Tip 1: Smile and make eye contact
When you ask someone their name, smile and make eye contact with them. This shows that you are friendly and approachable, and it makes the person more likely to respond positively.

Tip 2: Use the appropriate form of address
When asking someone their name, use the appropriate form of address, depending on whether you are speaking to a friend, a family member, or a stranger. For example, you would use the informal phrase "¿Cómo te llamas?" when speaking to a friend, but you would use the formal phrase "¿Cómo se llama?" when speaking to a stranger.

Tip 3: Pronounce the name correctly
When someone tells you their name, try to pronounce it correctly. This shows that you are paying attention and that you are interested in getting to know the person. If you are not sure how to pronounce the name, you can ask the person to repeat it or you can look it up online.

Tip 4: Respond appropriately
When someone tells you their name, respond appropriately. This could involve saying "mucho gusto" (nice to meet you), shaking their hand, or giving them a hug. The appropriate response will depend on the situation and the level of formality.

By following these tips, you can show that you are friendly, respectful, and interested in getting to know the person you are speaking to.

Now that you know how to ask someone their name in Spanish and have some practical tips for doing so, you can start practicing with friends, family, or even strangers. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with asking someone their name in Spanish.

Conclusion

Asking someone their name in Spanish is a polite and essential way to start a conversation. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can ask someone their name in a friendly and respectful manner, whether you are speaking to a friend, a family member, or a stranger.

Here are the main points to remember:

• There are two ways to ask someone their name in Spanish: the informal "¿Cómo te llamas?" and the formal "¿Cómo se llama?"
• The appropriate way to respond to the question "What is your name?" is to state your name clearly and confidently.
• You can add "mucho gusto" (nice to meet you) after stating your name to show that you are pleased to have met the person.
• It is important to smile, make eye contact, and be friendly when asking someone their name.

By following these tips, you can make a good impression and start conversations confidently in Spanish.

So next time you meet someone from a Spanish-speaking country or want to communicate with someone from a Spanish-speaking background, don't be afraid to ask them their name. It's a great way to start a conversation and build relationships.