First impressions matter. Whether you’re meeting someone for the first time, introducing yourself in a professional setting, or starting an email, the words you choose can set the tone for the entire conversation.While the phrase “My name is” is the most common introduction, there are many polite, creative, and professional alternatives that can help you sound warm, confident, and approachable.
This guide explores 25 alternatives to “My name is”, with their meaning, definition, tone, explanation, examples, best use cases, and When Not Use them.
What Does “My Name Is” Mean?
The phrase “My name is” is a simple and direct way of introducing yourself by stating your identity. It’s one of the most common expressions used in both formal and informal settings, such as meetings, interviews, classrooms, or casual conversations. At its core, the phrase communicates who you are and helps establish a connection or starting point for interaction. Depending on the situation, people may use variations like “I am…” or just their name alone, but “My name is” remains the clearest and most widely recognized way to introduce oneself.
When to Use “My Name Is”
- In professional introductions (meetings, interviews, presentations).
- In emails when writing to someone new.
- When clarity is important (formal documents, customer service).
- When you want to keep it simple and direct.
Is It Professional/Polite to Say “My Name Is”?
Yes, saying “My name is” is both professional and polite, making it one of the most common and appropriate ways to introduce yourself in almost any situation. It works well in formal settings like job interviews, business meetings, or presentations because it is clear, direct, and easy to understand. It’s also suitable in casual settings, such as meeting new people socially. While alternatives like “I am [name]” or simply stating your name can also be used, “My name is” is often seen as the most respectful, neutral, and universally accepted introduction.
Pros and Cons of Using “My Name Is”
Pros:
- Clear and universally understood.
- Works in both formal and informal situations.
- Leaves little room for confusion.
Cons:
- May feel too formal in casual settings.
- Can sound repetitive if overused.
- Lacks personality or warmth.
Synonyms For “My Name Is”
- I’m [Your Name]
- My Name’s [Your Name]
- This Is [Your Name]
- I Go By [Your Name]
- People Call Me [Your Name/Nickname]
- Allow Me to Introduce Myself, I’m [Your Name]
- You Can Call Me [Your Name]
- I’m Called [Your Name]
- Let Me Introduce Myself—[Your Name]
- Everyone Knows Me As [Your Name]
- They Call Me [Your Name]
- I Answer To [Your Name]
- You May Know Me As [Your Name]
- Call Me [Your Name]
- I’m Known As [Your Name]
- My Friends Call Me [Your Name/Nickname]
- I Introduce Myself As [Your Name]
- My Preferred Name Is [Your Name]
- Officially, I’m [Your Name]
- Professionally, I Go By [Your Name]
- I’d Like to Introduce Myself, I’m [Your Name]
- I’m Referred to As [Your Name]
- Just Call Me [Your Name]
- Most People Know Me As [Your Name]
- I Go Under the Name [Your Name]
1. I’m [Your Name]
Meaning: A friendly and casual introduction.
Definition: A shortened form of “I am,” commonly used in everyday conversations.
Tone: Warm, approachable, informal.
Explanation: This is one of the most natural ways to introduce yourself. It feels conversational and is often preferred in casual or social contexts.
Example:
- “Hi, I’m Sarah. Nice to meet you!”
Best Use: Social introductions, casual workplace settings.
When Not Use: Formal speeches or business presentations where full names matter.
2. This Is [Your Name]
Meaning: Stating your identity clearly, often in calls or written introductions.
Definition: A neutral and polite way to introduce yourself.
Tone: Professional, polite, straightforward.
Explanation: Works well when you’re not face-to-face and need to clarify who is speaking or writing.
Example:
- “Hello, this is David from ABC Company.”
Best Use: Phone calls, emails, customer support.
When Not Use: Casual in-person introductions.
3. My Full Name Is [Your Name]
Meaning: Sharing your complete name for clarity or formality.
Definition: A professional and formal introduction.
Tone: Serious, respectful, formal.
Explanation: Ideal when your full name is required for documentation, academic settings, or official meetings.
Example:
- “My full name is Dr. Rachel White, and I’ll be leading today’s lecture.”
Best Use: Job interviews, academic or legal settings.
When Not Use: Informal or relaxed gatherings.
4. Allow Me to Introduce Myself, I’m [Your Name]
Meaning: A polite and slightly formal opening line.
Definition: A courteous self-introduction, often used in networking.
Tone: Respectful, polished, formal.
Explanation: Shows professionalism while adding a warm, human touch.
Example:
- “Allow me to introduce myself, I’m Michael, your new account manager.”
Best Use: Networking events, professional meetings.
When Not Use: Casual meetups, it may feel overly formal.
5. People Call Me [Your Name/Nickname]
Meaning: Telling others your preferred name.
Definition: A friendly way to share your chosen or common name.
Tone: Approachable, casual, warm.
Explanation: Helps avoid confusion if your official name is different from your everyday name.
Example:
- “People call me Alex, though my full name is Alexander.”
Best Use: Social introductions, casual workplace environments.
When Not Use: Strictly formal settings where legal names are required.
6. You Can Call Me [Your Preferred Name]
Meaning: Sharing how you’d like to be addressed.
Definition: A polite invitation to use your chosen name or nickname.
Tone: Friendly, approachable, inclusive.
Explanation: Great for making people feel comfortable and avoiding miscommunication.
Example:
- “My name is Elizabeth, but you can call me Liz.”
Best Use: Social, semi-formal introductions.
When Not Use: Strict business or legal settings.
7. I Go By [Your Name/Nickname]
Meaning: Clarifying your preferred name.
Definition: A simple way to explain how you’re usually addressed.
Tone: Casual, polite, warm.
Explanation: Useful if you have a long name, or if people often mispronounce it.
Example:
- “I go by Sam, short for Samuel.”
Best Use: Friendly introductions, workplace teams.
When Not Use: Highly formal or ceremonial occasions.
8. Let Me Introduce Myself, I’m [Your Name]
Meaning: A courteous self-introduction.
Definition: Slightly formal but still warm and approachable.
Tone: Polished, professional, respectful.
Explanation: Adds a little more polish to a standard self-introduction.
Example:
- “Let me introduce myself, I’m Sophia from the HR team.”
Best Use: Business networking, formal meetings.
When Not Use: Very casual settings.
9. For Those Who Don’t Know Me, I’m [Your Name]
Meaning: Introducing yourself to a group where some may already know you.
Definition: A semi-formal way to acknowledge both familiar and new faces.
Tone: Inclusive, polite, approachable.
Explanation: Great for group introductions, speeches, or meetings.
Example:
- “For those who don’t know me, I’m Daniel, and I work in marketing.”
Best Use: Group settings, conferences, team meetings.
When Not Use: One-on-one introductions.
10. Let’s Get Acquainted—My Name’s [Your Name]
Meaning: A warm and friendly introduction.
Definition: A casual way to invite connection while sharing your name.
Tone: Friendly, engaging, approachable.
Explanation: Perfect for creating a comfortable and open atmosphere.
Example:
- “Let’s get acquainted—my name’s Emma.”
Best Use: Social gatherings, networking mixers.
When Not Use: Highly formal business contexts.
11. They Call Me [Your Name/Nickname]
Meaning: Sharing how others usually refer to you.
Definition: A casual and friendly introduction.
Tone: Warm, approachable, conversational.
Explanation: Works well if you have a nickname or want to sound lighthearted.
Example:
- “They call me Jay, short for Jason.”
Best Use: Social settings, casual networking.
When Not Use: Formal introductions, legal or business contexts.
Read More: 25 Other Ways to Say “Waiting for Your Response” (With Examples)
12. I Answer To [Your Name]
Meaning: Playfully indicating your name.
Definition: A lighthearted introduction showing what name you respond to.
Tone: Casual, humorous, approachable.
Explanation: Adds personality and fun, but keep it for informal contexts.
Example:
- “I answer to Chris, though my mom still calls me Christopher.”
Best Use: Informal group settings, icebreakers.
When Not Use: Strictly professional or formal settings.
13. You May Know Me As [Your Name/Nickname]
Meaning: Suggests familiarity while clarifying your name.
Definition: A semi-formal way to introduce yourself with a common or known version of your name.
Tone: Friendly, approachable, slightly formal.
Explanation: Useful if you’re already familiar to some but not everyone.
Example:
- “You may know me as Kate, though officially my name is Katherine.”
Best Use: Work groups, social events where some know you.
When Not Use: One-on-one conversations.
14. Call Me [Your Name]
Meaning: Offering your preferred name directly.
Definition: A short, friendly way to share your name.
Tone: Warm, approachable, direct.
Explanation: Keeps it casual and easy to remember.
Example:
- “Call me Max—it’s easier than Maxwell.”
Best Use: Informal meetings, casual introductions.
When Not Use: Very formal occasions.
15. I’m Known As [Your Name]
Meaning: Telling others the name people usually use for you.
Definition: A polite way of clarifying your identity.
Tone: Neutral, professional, slightly formal.
Explanation: Works well when your legal name and common name differ.
Example:
- “I’m known as Rob, though my official name is Robert.”
Best Use: Professional or semi-formal contexts.
When Not Use: Very casual chats—it may sound too stiff.
16. My Friends Call Me [Your Name/Nickname]
Meaning: Sharing how close people refer to you.
Definition: A friendly and personal introduction.
Tone: Warm, inviting, casual.
Explanation: Helps build a personal connection quickly.
Example:
- “My friends call me Mike, but my full name is Michael.”
Best Use: Social gatherings, networking mixers.
When Not Use: Strictly professional or serious introductions.
17. I Introduce Myself As [Your Name]
Meaning: Clarifying how you usually present yourself.
Definition: A formal and clear introduction.
Tone: Professional, polished, respectful.
Explanation: Great for professional or academic introductions.
Example:
- “I introduce myself as Dr. Anthony Smith, Professor of Economics.”
Best Use: Conferences, interviews, academic or corporate settings.
When Not Use: Relaxed or casual social events.
18. My Preferred Name Is [Your Name]
Meaning: Indicating the name you want to be called.
Definition: A polite and clear introduction of your chosen name.
Tone: Respectful, inclusive, professional.
Explanation: Especially important if you have a nickname, shortened version, or chosen name.
Example:
- “My preferred name is Daniel, though some call me Dan.”
Best Use: Workplace, professional introductions, inclusive environments.
When Not Use: Quick casual chats.
19. Officially, I’m [Your Name]
Meaning: Sharing your formal name in a lighter tone.
Definition: A polite but slightly casual way to state your name.
Tone: Semi-formal, approachable, friendly.
Explanation: Helps balance professionalism with friendliness.
Example:
- “Officially, I’m Jonathan, but most people just call me Jon.”
Best Use: Semi-formal business or social situations.
When Not Use: Highly formal contexts—it might sound too relaxed.
20. Professionally, I Go By [Your Name]
Meaning: Explaining your work-related name.
Definition: A professional way to clarify the name you use in work settings.
Tone: Professional, respectful, clear.
Explanation: Helps avoid confusion between personal and professional names.
Example:
- “Professionally, I go by Katherine, though my friends call me Kate.”
Best Use: Work introductions, client meetings, business networking.
When Not Use: Informal gatherings.
21. I’d Like to Introduce Myself, I’m [Your Name]
Meaning: A polite and professional self-introduction.
Definition: A courteous phrase often used in formal introductions.
Tone: Respectful, polished, professional.
Explanation: Great for business meetings and professional gatherings.
Example:
- “I’d like to introduce myself, I’m David, the new project coordinator.”
Best Use: Professional settings, networking, speeches.
When Not Use: Informal or casual contexts.
22. I’m Referred to As [Your Name]
Meaning: Explaining how others address you.
Definition: A formal way to indicate your name.
Tone: Polished, respectful, slightly formal.
Explanation: Works well if your title or full name matters in the setting.
Example:
- “I’m referred to as Dr. Emily Carter by my students.”
Best Use: Formal presentations, professional introductions.
When Not Use: Casual, everyday conversations.
23. Just Call Me [Your Name]
Meaning: A casual invitation to use your preferred name.
Definition: A friendly way to simplify introductions.
Tone: Casual, approachable, lighthearted.
Explanation: Helps put others at ease quickly.
Example:
- “Just call me Tom—it’s easier.”
Best Use: Social settings, casual workplaces.
When Not Use: Highly formal situations.
24. Most People Know Me As [Your Name]
Meaning: Sharing your commonly known identity.
Definition: A semi-formal way of explaining what name people usually use.
Tone: Friendly, approachable, professional.
Explanation: Good for when your official name differs from your common one.
Example:
- “Most people know me as Jenny, but my full name is Jennifer.”
Best Use: Networking, social or work introductions.
When Not Use: Very formal documents or legal introductions.
25. I Go Under the Name [Your Name]
Meaning: Sharing your chosen or professional name.
Definition: A more formal and traditional phrase.
Tone: Formal, professional, respectful.
Explanation: Common in creative industries, stage names, or legal settings.
Example:
- “I go under the name Mark Lane, though my full name is Marcus Lane.”
Best Use: Creative industries, stage names, professional branding.
When Not Use: Casual day-to-day conversations—it can sound too heavy.
Conclusion
Finding the right words to introduce yourself can shape the first impression you make. Instead of relying only on the standard “My Name Is”, you now have 25 unique alternatives—ranging from professional and formal to warm and casual. Whether you’re in a business meeting, a networking event, or a casual gathering, these phrases help you express yourself with clarity, confidence, and personality.
The key is to choose the phrase that matches the setting and tone—formal introductions require polished language, while casual contexts allow for friendly and relaxed wording. By using these alternatives, you can make your introductions more memorable, respectful, and engaging.
FAQs
Q1: Is it professional to say “My Name Is”?
Yes, it’s perfectly professional and widely accepted. However, using variations like “I’m called…” or “I go by…” can make your introduction sound warmer and more personal.
Q2: Which alternative works best in business settings?
Phrases like “I’d like to introduce myself, I’m…”, “Professionally, I go by…”, or “I’m known as…” are great for professional or formal contexts.
Q3: What should I avoid when introducing myself?
Avoid overly casual or playful introductions like “They call me…” in serious business or formal settings.
Q4: Can I use a nickname when introducing myself?
Yes, but clarify it if needed. For example, “My name is Jonathan, but you can call me Jon.” This helps avoid confusion.
Q5: How do I make my introduction more memorable?
Pair your name with a small detail. For example: “I’m Sarah, the new marketing specialist.” This gives people a quick reference to remember you.
