yinishyé
/jɪ̀nɪ̀ʃjɛ́/
yinishyé is the Navajo way to say "my name is".
This phrase is used to identify yourself to others by stating your name.
Meaning: a way to identify oneself (phrase)
How does it change in a sentence?
To use this phrase in a complete sentence, the standard construction is Shí éí [Name] yinishyé, which translates to "I am [Name] (named)".
How do you pronounce it?
/jɪ̀nɪ̀ʃjɛ́/
Did you know?
- In traditional Navajo culture, names are often kept secret from outsiders to protect the individual from spiritual harm or bad luck. A person might only share their name with close family or trusted friends.
- When introducing themselves, a Navajo person may mention their four clans instead of their individual name. This 'clan greeting' identifies their lineage and social position within the community.
- Because Navajo is a tonal language, the way you pitch your voice when saying yinishyé can completely change the meaning of the words.
Examples in context
- Shí éí Kii yinishyéMy name is KiiThis sentence is useful for practicing how to introduce yourself using the form yinishyé.
- Shí éí Kyle yinishyé.My name is Kyle.
- Shí éí Michelle yinishyé.My name is Michelle.
Example conversation
Kyle and Michelle meet for the first time at a community event.
- KyleYá'át'ééh, Kyle yinishyé.Hello, my name is Kyle.
- MichelleYá'át'ééh, Michelle yinishyé.Hello, my name is Michelle.
- KyleÁáʼá, áádááʼ.Ah, nice to meet you.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “my name is” translations and entries yinishyé, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
