mitt navn
The English phrase "my name" is translated into Norwegian as mitt navn.
mitt navn is used to identify the name that a person is called.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the neuter form of the possessive pronoun because navn is a neuter noun.
What mistakes should you avoid?
While mitt navn er… is grammatically correct, it is more common for Norwegians to use the verb heter to introduce themselves, such as in the phrase Jeg heter…
Did you know?
- The possessive mitt comes from the Old Norse mitt, showing a direct lineage from the Viking Age to modern introductions.
- If you are talking about a 'nickname', Norwegians often use the word kallenavn, which literally translates to 'calling-name'.
- In Norway, it is common for people to introduce themselves using only their first name. Using mitt navn followed by a full name can sound overly formal or like a police interrogation.
Examples in context
- Mitt navn er Erik.My name is Erik.
- Kan du skrive ned mitt navn?Can you write down my name?
- Det er ikke mitt navn.It is not my name.
Example conversation
Ingrid and Magnus are meeting for the first time at a party.
- IngridHei! Mitt navn er Ingrid.Hi! My name is Ingrid.
- MagnusHyggelig å møte deg, Ingrid.Nice to meet you, Ingrid.
- IngridHva heter du?What is your name?
- MagnusJeg heter Magnus.I am called Magnus.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries mitt, navn, CC BY-SA 4.0.
