Je m'appelle Mary
To say "my name is Mary" in French, you use Je m'appelle Mary.
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 English uses the possessive structure "my name is", French uses a reflexive verb structure to express the same idea.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase uses the reflexive form of the verb appeler, which means the action of naming is being performed by the subject on themselves.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using Mon nom est… as a direct translation of "My name is…". While it might seem logical, Je m'appelle is the standard and correct way to introduce yourself in French.
Did you know?
- The word appelle comes from the verb appeler, which also means 'to call someone on the phone' or 'to shout'.
- In very formal French settings, it is common to introduce yourself by stating your last name first, or simply saying Nom, Prénom on official documents.
- While Je m'appelle is standard, you might hear Moi, c'est Mary in casual settings, which literally means 'Me, it is Mary'.
Examples in context
- Salut tout le monde ! Je m'appelle Mary.Hello everyone! My name is Mary.This sentence is useful for practicing a friendly greeting to a group while using Je m'appelle Mary.Tatoeba #4097130 by sbamsbamsbam, translation #3064297 by Hybrid
- Enchantée, je m'appelle Mary.Nice to meet you, my name is Mary.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two students meet for the first time in class.
- LucasSalut ! Je m'appelle Lucas.Hi! My name is Lucas.
- LéaSalut Lucas, je m'appelle Mary.Hi Lucas, my name is Mary.
- LucasTu es dans ma classe ?Are you in my class?
- LéaOui, je suis nouvelle ici.Yes, I am new here.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
