je m'appelle jessica
The English phrase "my name is jessica" is translated into French as je m'appelle jessica.
This phrase is used to introduce yourself by stating your name. The component Je means "I".
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase je m'appelle literally translates to "I call myself".
Which one should you use?
While Je suis Jessica (I am Jessica) is grammatically correct, je m'appelle jessica is the more standard and natural way to introduce oneself in French.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb used is appeler. The reflexive form m'appelle is used to indicate that the action of calling is being performed on oneself.
Did you know?
- In many French-speaking cultures, especially in parts of Africa, it is more common to use Je suis [name] rather than Je m'appelle [name] to introduce oneself.
- The word je descends from the Classical Latin word egō̆.
- The verb appeler is used both for introducing yourself and for the act of calling someone on the telephone.
Examples in context
- Enchanté, je m'appelle Jessica.Nice to meet you, my name is Jessica.
- Bonjour, je m'appelle Jessica et je suis nouvelle ici.Hello, my name is Jessica and I am new here.
Example conversation
Two students meet for the first time in a classroom.
- ChloéSalut, je m'appelle Jessica.Hi, my name is Jessica.
- LucasBonjour Jessica, moi c'est Lucas.Hello Jessica, I am Lucas.
- ChloéTu es dans ma classe ?Are you in my class?
- LucasOui, je crois que oui.Yes, I think so.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries je, CC BY-SA 4.0.
