těší mě
[cɛʃiː mɲɛ]
The English phrase "pleased to meet you" is translated into Czech as těší mě.
těší mě is a polite formula used when being introduced to somebody. It is the most natural and common short form.
Meaning: polite formula used when being introduced to somebody (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase těší mě literally translates to "it pleases me".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
těší mě is a polite and standard way to respond to an introduction, suitable for both formal and semi-formal social settings. For a more formal expression, you can say Moc mě těší. In more informal settings, you might use Rád/ Ráda tě poznávám. In very casual settings one might simply say těší, though těší mě remains the most natural and common short form.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb těšit is in the third person singular form, making the phrase impersonal and applicable regardless of whether the speaker is male or female.
Did you know?
- While těší mě is a polite greeting, Czechs often accompany it with a firm handshake and direct eye contact. Avoiding eye contact during this phrase can be perceived as untrustworthy or cold.
- The verb in těší mě is the same root used in the word těšit se, which means 'to look forward to something'. So, when you say 'pleased to meet you', you are using a verb that expresses a sense of anticipation or joy.
- In very traditional or old-fashioned formal settings, a Czech man might slightly bow his head while saying Moc mě těší. This gesture is rare among youth but still appears in high-society or diplomatic circles.
Examples in context
- Těší mě, Tome.Pleased to meet you, Tom.This sentence demonstrates how to use těší mě when addressing someone by name.Tatoeba #10125020 by Ergulis, translation #5752895 by Catriona
- Moc mě těší, Jakube.Nice to meet you, Jakub.
- Také mě těší, Dominiku.Nice to meet you too, Dominik.
- Těší mě.Pleased to meet you.
Example conversation
Jakub and Kateřina are introduced at a party.
- JakubAhoj, já jsem Jakub. Těší mě.Hi, I am Jakub. Pleased to meet you.
- KateřinaTěší mě, Jakube. Já jsem Kateřina.Pleased to meet you, Jakub. I am Kateřina.
- JakubOdkud se znáš s hostiteli?How do you know the hosts?
- KateřinaStudovaly jsme spolu na vysoké škole.We studied together at university.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “pleased to meet you” translations and entries těší mě, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
