Hola, soy
The English phrase "hello, I am" is translated into Spanish as Hola, soy.
This phrase is used to introduce yourself by name.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Hola (hello) and soy (I am).
Which one should you use?
In Spanish, using soy (from the verb *ser*) is used for permanent identity or name, whereas estoy (from the verb *estar*) would imply a temporary state or location.
How does it change in a sentence?
Soy is the first-person singular present indicative form of the verb ser (to be).
Did you know?
- The root of hola might be linked to an Old High German call used to hail a ferryman to fetch them across a river.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, the verbal introduction Hola, soy… is often accompanied by a firm handshake or, in social settings, a single cheek kiss.
- In very formal Spanish introductions, people often replace Soy with Me llamo, which literally means 'I call myself' rather than 'I am'.
Examples in context
- Buenos días, me llamo Roberto. ¿En qué puedo ayudarle hoy?Good morning, my name is Roberto. How can I assist you today?
- Hola, me llamo María, ¿y tú?Hi, my name is Maria, and you?
- ¡Buenas! Me llamo Javier. ¿Cómo te va?Hi! I'm Javier. How's it going?
- Hola, soy Elena.Hello, I am Elena.
- Hola, soy el nuevo profesor.Hello, I am the new teacher.
- Hola, soy una estudiante de intercambio.Hello, I am an exchange student.
Example conversation
Two people meet at a social gathering.
- SofíaHola, soy Sofía.Hello, I am Sofía.
- MateoMucho gusto, Sofía. Soy Mateo.Nice to meet you, Sofía. I am Mateo.
- Sofía¿Eres nuevo aquí, Mateo?Are you new here, Mateo?
- MateoSí, soy nuevo en la ciudad.Yes, I am new in the city.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries hola, soy, CC BY-SA 4.0.
