My name is one of the most common phrases when introducing ourselves to new people. However, many other ways to say “my name is” can make your introduction more unique, eloquent, or fun. This blog post will explore some great synonyms for “my name is” with examples to liven up your self-introduction.
Whether you want to sound more professional, creative, or casual, there are lots of options beyond the standard “my name is.” Using a variety of phrases can make you come across as a more dynamic and interesting person right from the start. It also shows that you have a command of language and can express yourself in diverse ways.
So, if you’re tired of always saying “my name is” when you meet new people, read on for some fresh ideas!
We will look at idiomatic substitutes, clever spins, and even funny takes on this ubiquitous statement. With the examples we provide, you’ll have plenty of new introductions to try out next time you make someone’s acquaintance.
Is It Professional to Say “My Name Is”?
No, it is not necessarily unprofessional to say “my name is” when introducing yourself in a professional setting. However, there are more eloquent options that can make your introduction sound polished and sophisticated.
When meeting new business contacts, you want to make a good first impression with an introduction that highlights your professionalism. Simply stating “my name is” comes across as a bit basic and bare-bones.
Instead, consider saying something like “I’d like to introduce myself, my name is…” or “Allow me to tell you my name” or “My name is…, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”
Using a phrase instead of just bluntly saying “My name is” shows more poise and polish when making an introduction in a professional environment.
The key is adding some additional words to give your introduction a bit more gravitas and etiquette. So feel free to open with “my name is” in casual settings.
But when meeting professional contacts for the first time, choose a more refined phrase to make the introduction and put your best foot forward.
With a little thoughtfulness, you can easily turn the standard “my name is” into a warm, polite greeting that creates a positive first impression.
What To Say Instead of “My Name Is”
Here are 10 alternative ways to say “my name is”:
- I’m called…
- I go by…
- The name’s…
- You can call me…
- Everyone calls me…
- I respond to…
- My friends call me…
- People know me as…
- I prefer to be called…
- They call me…
1. I’m called (Formal/Informal)
“I’m called” is a versatile phrase that fits both formal and informal contexts.
It implies that the name you’re about to mention is what you’re generally known by, without indicating your personal preference strongly.
This expression is particularly useful when you want to introduce yourself but leave room for the listener to understand that this might not be your official name but rather what you’re commonly referred to as.
It’s a subtle way of saying your name without insisting it’s your preferred or legal name.
For example, in a business meeting, you might say, “I’m called John in professional circles, but my full name is Jonathan Smith.”
In a more casual setting, you might say, “I’m called JJ by my friends due to my initials.”
This way of introducing yourself provides a sense of your identity without making a strong statement about your personal preference.
2. I go by (Informal)
“I go by” is an informal and casual way to introduce yourself, suggesting a preference for a particular name or nickname.
It’s often used when the name you prefer to be called is different from your formal or legal name.
This expression gives a personal touch to introductions, indicating that the name you’re about to share is the one you identify with and prefer in everyday interactions.
For instance, you might say, “I go by Liz, even though my birth certificate says Elizabeth.”
This indicates a choice and personal preference, making it clear to the listener that Liz is the name you resonate with and would like to be addressed by in casual settings or among friends.
3. The name’s (Casual/Informal)
“The name’s” is a casual and somewhat playful way to introduce yourself, often used to create a relaxed or friendly atmosphere.
It’s akin to something you might hear in a movie or a book, where the character wants to leave an impression or add a bit of flair to their introduction.
It doesn’t necessarily indicate a formal or preferred name but serves as a laid-back way of telling people what to call you.
An example could be, “The name’s Mike, and I’m the new graphic designer.” This approach can make the introduction memorable and set a friendly tone for the conversation that follows.
4. You can call me (Flexible)
“You can call me” is a flexible expression that can be formal or informal, depending on the context and the way it’s delivered.
It’s polite and indicates that you’re giving the listener the option to use a particular name or nickname when addressing you.
This phrase can be particularly useful in situations where you want to offer a name that’s easier to remember or pronounce than your formal name.
For example, in a professional setting, you might say, “You can call me Pat, which is shorter than my full name, Patricia.”
In a more relaxed environment, you might say, “You can call me Paddy; all my friends do.”
5. Everyone calls me (Informal)
“Everyone calls me” is an informal way to introduce yourself, indicating that the name you’re about to share is widely used by your acquaintances, friends, and family. It suggests a sense of community or acceptance around the name and implies that it’s a nickname or term of endearment that’s become a significant part of your identity.
For instance:
Saying, “Everyone calls me Sunny because of my bright personality,” not only shares the name you’re known by but also offers a glimpse into how others perceive you and why this name has stuck.
This introduction is warm and personal, making it suitable for informal settings or when trying to create a friendly rapport.
6. I respond to (Humorous/Informal)
“I respond to” is a humorous and light-hearted way to introduce yourself, often used to inject a bit of fun into the conversation or to indicate that you’re not particularly fussy about what name people use for you.
This expression can be particularly effective in breaking the ice and making people feel at ease around you.
It suggests a laid-back personality and a flexible attitude towards what people call you.
For example:
You might say, “I respond to Alex, but hey, shout out any variant, and I’ll probably turn around!”
This not only tells people what name you go by but also sets a cheerful and relaxed tone, making you approachable and easygoing.
7. My friends call me (Casual/Intimate)
“My friends call me” is a casual and intimate way of introducing yourself, suggesting that the name you’re about to share is special and reserved for those you consider close to you.
It’s a way of inviting someone into your personal space by sharing a name that carries emotional significance.
This expression often indicates a nickname or a variation of your name that’s been affectionately given by your friends.
For Example:
Saying something like, “My friends call me Sammy, and I’d love it if you did too,” not only shares your preferred name but also extends a hand of friendship, indicating a desire to form a closer bond with the listener.
8. People know me as (Neutral)
“People know me as” is a neutral and somewhat formal way to introduce yourself, which is suitable for both professional and casual contexts.
It indicates that the name you’re about to mention is your recognized or public identity, without necessarily implying personal preference or intimacy.
This phrase is particularly useful when your known name is different from your legal name or when you have a public persona or professional identity.
For instance:
In a professional context, you might say, “People know me as Dr. Green, though my first name is Andrew.” This introduction acknowledges your professional identity while also sharing a bit more about yourself.
9. I prefer to be called (Formal/Specific)
“I prefer to be called” is a formal and specific way to introduce yourself, clearly stating your preferred name.
This expression is particularly useful when you have a strong preference for a particular name or if your preferred name is not immediately obvious from your legal name.
It sets clear expectations and politely requests that people respect your preference.
For example:
You might say, “I prefer to be called Catherine, not Cathy.” This not only informs people of your preferred name but also establishes a boundary regarding how you wish to be addressed, which can be important in professional and formal settings.
10. They call me (Informal/Casual)
“They call me” is an informal and casual way to introduce yourself, often used to indicate a nickname or a name you’re known by in certain circles.
This expression can add a sense of mystery or intrigue, as it doesn’t specify who “they” are, and it implies a story or a reason behind the name.
It’s a relaxed and nonchalant way of sharing your name, suitable for casual conversations and social settings.
For instance:
Saying, “They call me Blaze on the basketball court,” not only tells people what name you go by in that context but also hints at your prowess or personality on the basketball court, adding depth to your introduction.