hola, me llamo Ava
The English phrase "hi, my name is ava" is translated into Spanish as hola, me llamo Ava.
This phrase is a greeting used to introduce oneself to another person.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase me llamo literally translates to "I call myself".
Which one should you use?
While English speakers say "my name is", Spanish speakers more commonly use the reflexive verb llamarse (to call oneself) to introduce themselves. You can also use the verb ser (to be) to introduce yourself, such as in the phrase Hola, soy Ava.
How does it change in a sentence?
The expression me llamo uses the reflexive form of the verb llamar (to call) to express one's name.
Did you know?
- The word hola might have originally been a command to stop. It likely stems from the Old High German holā, which was an emphatic way to hail a ferryman or fetch someone.
- In many Spanish-speaking cultures, a greeting like hola is often accompanied by a single kiss on each cheek or a light hug between friends and family.
- Depending on the country, the ll in llamo can be pronounced as a 'y' sound, a 'j' sound, or even a 'sh' sound in parts of Argentina and Uruguay.
Examples in context
- Hola, mi nombre es Ava. Encantada de conocerle.Hello, my name is Ava. Pleased to meet you.
- Hola, me llamo Ava. Mucho gusto.Hi, I'm Ava. Nice to meet you.
- Hola, me llamo Ava y soy nueva aquí.Hi, my name is Ava and I am new here.
- Hola, me llamo Ava, ¿qué tal?Hi, my name is Ava, how are you?
Example conversation
Two people meeting for the first time at a party.
- SofíaHola, me llamo Ava.Hi, my name is Ava.
- AlejandroHola Ava, soy Alejandro.Hi Ava, I am Alejandro.
- SofíaMucho gusto, Alejandro.Nice to meet you, Alejandro.
- AlejandroIgualmente, Ava.Likewise, Ava.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries hola, me, CC BY-SA 4.0.
