Jak masz na imię?
/ˈjak ˈmaʂ ˈna ˈi.mjɛ/word by word
In Polish, the phrase for "what is your name?" is Jak masz na imię?
This phrase is a question used specifically to ask someone for their first name.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "How have you for name?"
Which one should you use?
While Jak masz na imię? specifically asks for a first name, the phrase Jak się nazywasz? is used when asking for a full name or surname.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form Jak masz na imię? uses the informal second-person singular verb masz, making it appropriate for children or peers.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈjak ˈmaʂ ˈna ˈi.mjɛ/. It has 5 syllables, and the first syllable is stressed.
When do people say it?
A natural way to respond to this question is Mam na imię… followed by your first name.
Did you know?
- The word imię is a distant relative of the English word 'name'. They both descend from the same Proto-Indo-European root *h₁n̥h₃mén.
- While imię refers to a first name, the word nazwisko is used for a surname. The latter literally means 'the name that was called' or 'the name that followed'.
- In a formal setting, such as with a stranger or an elder, you should avoid using this phrase and instead use the more respectful Jak się Pan/Pani nazywa?
Examples in context
- Przepraszam, jak się pan/pani nazywa?Excuse me, what is your name?
- Cześć, jak masz na imię?Hi, what is your name?
- Jak się nazywasz?What's your name?
Example conversation
Two people meeting for the first time at a party.
- PawełCześć, jestem Paweł. Jak masz na imię?Hi, I am Paweł. What is your name?
- MałgorzataMiło mi, jestem Małgorzata.Nice to meet you, I am Małgorzata.
- PawełBardzo miło cię poznać, Małgorzato.It is very nice to meet you, Małgorzata.
- MałgorzataMnie również.Me too.
