Which one should you use?
In casual Turkish conversation, it is very common to simply say Adım … (My name is …) by omitting the possessive pronoun benim. While Benim adım … is a direct translation of "My name is …",
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Selam is a more casual way to say 'hello' compared to Merhaba. Consequently, Selam, benim adım is an informal way to say "Hi, my name is".
How does it change in a sentence?
The word adım can be replaced with ismim to say "my name is" in a slightly more formal or standard way, resulting in the phrase benim ismim.
How do you pronounce it?
The phrase consists of 5 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable. The sounds are as follows: /m/ as in [m]uch, /æ/ as in c[a]t, /ɾ/ as in AmE a[t]om, /h/ as in [h]ome, /b/ as in a[b]out, /n/ as in [n]ot, /i/ as in cr[ee]k and /ɯ/ somewhat like ribb[o]n.
When do people say it?
After introducing yourself with Merhaba, benim adım …, the most natural response from the other person is often Memnun oldum (Nice to meet you). You might also encounter the phrase nasılsınız, which means "How are you?"
Did you know?
- The word adım comes from a Proto-Turkic root meaning 'to walk', linking the concept of a 'step' to the word used for a 'name'.
- In Turkish culture, after saying Merhaba, benim adım, it is common to shake hands, and in some traditional settings, elders may be greeted with a slight bow or a hand to the heart.
- While merhaba is the standard greeting, in very formal settings such as business or government, speakers often use the more traditional Merhaba efendim, where efendim means 'my lord' or 'sir/madam'.
Examples in context
- Merhaba, adım Ahmet.Hello, my name is Ahmet.
- Selam, benim adım Ayşe.Hi, my name is Ayşe.
- Merhaba, benim adım Ali.Hello, my name is Ali.
- Merhaba, benim adım Ayşe. Tanıştığımıza memnun oldum.Hello, my name is Ayşe. Nice to meet you.
Example conversation
Selin and Can meet for the first time at a social event.
- SelinMerhaba, benim adım Selin.Hello, my name is Selin.
- CanMerhaba Selin, ben de Can.Hello Selin, I am Can too.
- SelinTanıştığımıza memnun oldum, Can.Nice to meet you, Can.
- CanBen de çok memnun oldum.I am also very pleased to meet you.
