Which one should you use?
While benim adım is a complete way to say "my name is", you can also simply say adım [Name] to achieve the same meaning more concisely.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
For a more informal and casual greeting, you can use selam, benim adım. If you wish to be more formal and elaborate, you might say İyi günler, size kendimi tanıtmak istiyorum. Benim adım [your name].
How does it change in a sentence?
In Turkish, the verb "to be" (is) is often omitted in simple identity statements like this, as the possessive suffix on the noun carries the necessary grammatical information.
How do you pronounce it?
The phrase has 5 syllables, and the stress is on the 1st syllable. /m/ is like [m]uch, /æ/ is like c[a]t, /ɾ/ is like AmE a[t]om, /h/ is like [h]ome, /b/ is like a[b]out, /n/ is like [n]ot, /i/ is like cr[ee]k and /ɯ/ is somewhat like ribb[o]n.
Did you know?
- The word for 'name' in benim adım is a homonym for the word 'step'. Depending on the context, adım can mean either a person's name or a single pace taken while walking.
- In Turkey, introductions are often accompanied by a handshake. However, when introducing yourself to an older person or a superior, it is a sign of respect to slightly bow your head.
- The word merhaba comes from the Arabic word marḥaban, which is rooted in a word meaning 'spacious' or 'wide'. It literally implies that the guest is in a wide and welcoming place.
Examples in context
- Merhaba, adım Ayşe.Hello, my name is Ayşe.
- İyi günler, size kendimi tanıtmak istiyorum. Benim adım Mehmet.Good day, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Mehmet.
- Merhaba, ben Ali.Hello, I am Ali.
- Selam, adım Ayşe.Hi, my name is Ayşe.
- Merhaba, benim adım Can.Hi, my name is Can.
- Merhaba, benim adım Selin ve ben bir öğrenciyim.Hi, my name is Selin and I am a student.
Example conversation
Two people meeting at a language class.
- ElifMerhaba, benim adım Elif.Hi, my name is Elif.
- MehmetMerhaba Elif, benim adım Mehmet.Hi Elif, my name is Mehmet.
- ElifMemnun oldum, Mehmet.Nice to meet you, Mehmet.
- MehmetBen de memnun oldum.Nice to meet you too.
