Bonjour, je m'appelle Evelyn
The English phrase "hello, my name is evelyn" is translated into French as Bonjour, je m'appelle Evelyn.
This phrase is used to introduce oneself to another person. The greeting Bonjour is the standard French way to say "hello," while the phrase Je m'appelle is used to mean "I am called" or "My name is."
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase je m'appelle literally translates to "I call myself."
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Using Bonjour, je m'appelle Evelyn is appropriate for formal situations. In contrast, using Salut, je m'appelle Evelyn is an informal way to say "Hi, my name is Evelyn," which is suitable for peers or children.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase je m'appelle uses the reflexive pronoun m’ because it is derived from the pronominal verb s'appeler.
Did you know?
- In France, the greeting Bonjour is often accompanied by 'la bise', a custom of kissing both cheeks, though this is usually reserved for people who already know each other rather than first introductions.
- The verb s'appeler shares a root with the English word 'appeal' and the Latin 'appellare', meaning to call upon or address someone.
- While Bonjour is used throughout the day, French speakers switch to Bonsoir once the sun begins to set or the workday ends, even if it is still technically daylight.
Examples in context
- Bonjour, je m'appelle Evelyn, enchantée.Hello, my name is Evelyn, nice to meet you.
- Bonjour, je m'appelle Evelyn et je suis la nouvelle voisine.Hello, my name is Evelyn and I am the new neighbor.
Example conversation
Manon introduces herself to Gabriel at a gathering.
- ManonBonjour, je m'appelle Evelyn.Hello, my name is Evelyn.
- GabrielEnchanté, Evelyn. Je m'appelle Gabriel.Nice to meet you, Evelyn. My name is Gabriel.
- ManonC'est un plaisir de vous rencontrer, Gabriel.It is a pleasure to meet you, Gabriel.
- GabrielPareillement, bienvenue à la fête !Likewise, welcome to the party!
