What does it mean word for word?
The phrase 저는 [이름]입니다 is composed of 저 (I, humble form), 는 (topic marker) and 입니다 (am/is/are, formal polite).
Which one should you use?
There are several ways to introduce yourself depending on the context. 저는 [이름]입니다 is a common way to say 'I am [name]' in a formal setting. For a slightly less formal but still polite way to introduce yourself in everyday social situations, you can use 저는 [이름]이에요. If you want to specifically say 'My name is [Name]' informally, use 내 이름은 [Name]이야. In very casual settings, you might use 나는 [Name]이야 to say 'I am [name]' or the even shorter 나 [이름]이야 to say 'I'm [name]'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
저는 [이름]입니다 is used in formal settings, such as business meetings, interviews or when speaking to someone much older or of higher status. 저는 [이름]이에요 is a polite but less formal way to introduce yourself in everyday social situations.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb 입니다 is a non-conjugating polite ending used to state identity in formal speech.
How do you pronounce it?
jeoneun [ireum]imnida
Did you know?
- When introducing yourself, you might be asked for your 'age' immediately after your name, as this determines which version of 'I am' and which polite endings you must use for the rest of the conversation.
- In many formal introductions, Koreans do not just say their name, but also their company or school. A proper introduction often follows the pattern of 'Company/School' then 'Name', rather than starting with 'I am'.
- In a business card exchange, you typically present the card with two hands while saying 저는 [이름]입니다 to signify that the identity you are presenting is valuable.
Examples in context
- 저는 미나입니다.I am Mina.
- 내 이름은 준호야.My name is Junho.
