je m'appelle Alex
The English phrase "my name is alex" is translated into French as je m'appelle Alex.
This phrase is used to introduce yourself by stating your name.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase je m'appelle literally translates to "I call myself".
Which one should you use?
While you can say Je suis Alex to mean "I am Alex", the phrase je m'appelle Alex is the more standard and natural way to introduce oneself in French.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Québec, Canada, people often use Je me nomme Alex instead of Je m'appelle Alex.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb used in je m'appelle is reflexive, using the pronoun m' to indicate that the action is performed on oneself.
Did you know?
- The verb appeler is also used in the phrase s'appeler comme tout le monde, which literally means 'to be named like everyone else' but refers to having a very common name.
- While je m'appelle is standard, French children often learn to introduce themselves as Moi, c'est [Name], which translates to 'Me, it is [Name]'.
- While je m'appelle is standard, French people often omit it entirely in casual settings, simply saying their name Alex with a rising intonation to introduce themselves.
Examples in context
- Bonjour, je m'appelle Alex.Hello, my name is Alex.
- Enchanté, je m'appelle Alex.Nice to meet you, my name is Alex.
Example conversation
Lucas and Chloé meet for the first time at a party.
- LucasSalut ! Je m'appelle Alex.Hi! My name is Alex.
- ChloéSalut Alex, moi c'est Chloé.Hi Alex, I'm Chloé.
- LucasRavi de te rencontrer, Chloé.Nice to meet you, Chloé.
- ChloéMerci, moi aussi !Thanks, me too!
