はじめまして、私の名前は
hajimemashite, watashi no namae wa
The Japanese phrase for "nice to meet you, my name is" is はじめまして、私の名前は (hajimemashite, watashi no namae wa).
This phrase is a polite greeting used when introducing yourself to someone for the first time. The first part, はじめまして, is used exclusively at the beginning of a first-time introduction and cannot be used when greeting someone you already know. The term implies the beginning of something and is often used when introducing yourself for the first time.
What does it mean word for word?
The word はじめまして literally means "it is the first time" (referring to the meeting).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The full phrase Hajimemashite, watashi no namae wa [Your Name] desu. is a formal way to introduce yourself. However, in natural polite Japanese, it is more common to use the shorter construction はじめまして、[Name] です (Nice to meet you, I am [Name]).
How do you pronounce it?
hajimemashite, watashi no namae wa
When do people say it?
A standard Japanese introduction is often completed by adding よろしくお願いします (yoroshiku onegaishimasu) after stating your name. This phrase functions as a polite closing to the introduction and conveys the meaning of "pleased to meet you", "let's get along well" or "please treat me well".
Did you know?
- In very formal business settings, people may use 謙譲語 (kenjougo), or humble language, when introducing themselves. This involves using specific verbs that lower one's own status to show respect to the listener.
- When using はじめまして, a slight bow is an essential non-verbal component of the greeting. The depth and duration of the bow are often as important as the words themselves in conveying politeness.
- In many Japanese business settings, you might skip the 'my name is' part entirely and simply say your name followed by your company and department. This places the emphasis on your professional identity rather than your personal name.
Example conversation
Hiyori and Kenta meet for the first time at a community event.
- 陽葵 Himariはじめまして、私の名前は陽葵です。Hajimemashite, watashi no namae wa Hiyori desu.Nice to meet you, my name is Hiyori.
- 健太 Kentaはじめまして、健太です。Hajimemashite, Kenta desu.Nice to meet you, I'm Kenta.
- 陽葵 Himariよろしくお願いします、健太さん。Yoroshiku onegaishimasu, Kenta-san.It's a pleasure to meet you, Kenta.
- 健太 Kentaこちらこそよろしくお願いします。Kochira koso yoroshiku onegaishimasu.Likewise, it's a pleasure to meet you.
