我是[名字]
wǒ shì [míngzi]
The English phrase "I am [name]" is expressed in Chinese as 我是[名字] (wǒ shì [míngzi]).
我是[名字] is used for direct identification. You might use this phrase when answering a phone call or when introducing yourself in a formal or neutral setting.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the pronoun 我 (wǒ), meaning "I" and the verb 是 (shì), meaning "to be" or "am".
Which one should you use?
While 我是[名字] means "I am [name]", it is worth noting that 我叫[名字] (which literally means "I am called [name]") is often more common and sounds more natural when you are introducing yourself to someone for the first time.
How does it change in a sentence?
Unlike in English, the verb 是 does not change its form based on the person (such as I, you or he/she) or the number (singular or plural).
How do you pronounce it?
wǒ shì [míngzi]
Did you know?
- The character 我 (wǒ) for 'I' is a pictograph that originally depicted a variety of weapons, suggesting a sense of self-protection or independence.
- While 我是 is used for identity, in very formal introductions, a person might refer to themselves as 在下 (zàixià), which literally means 'the one below'.
- In many formal social situations, instead of saying 'I am [name]', people will actually use the phrase 姓 (xìng), which means 'my surname is', because sharing one's family name is considered more respectful than using a given name.
Examples in context
- 我是张伟。I am Zhang Wei.
- 我是王美丽。I am Wang Meili.
- 我是李明。I am Li Ming.
- 我叫小明。I am called Xiao Ming.
- 我叫莉莉。I am called Lily.
- 我叫杰克。I am called Jack.
- 我叫小文。I am called Siu Man.
