17 Other Ways to Say “My Name Is”

“My name is” is one of the most common and straightforward ways to introduce oneself in both casual and professional settings. Whether you’re starting a conversation, joining a meeting, or greeting someone for the first time, this phrase instantly establishes your identity and sets the tone for further interaction.

However, while “my name is” gets the job done, there are several other expressions that can sound more engaging, polished, or better suited to specific social or formal situations. In this article, we’ll explore a range of alternatives that can elevate the way you introduce yourself, making your first impression more dynamic, versatile, and personalized depending on the context.

Other Ways to Say “My Name Is”

1. I’m [Name]

Example: “Hi, I’m David.”
Meaning: A shortened, more conversational version of “My name is.”
Usage: Perfect for casual introductions and friendly environments where a relaxed tone is appropriate; it keeps things warm and direct without sounding too formal.

2. I go by [Name]

Example: “I go by Annie.”
Meaning: Used when you prefer to be called by a nickname or a different version of your full name.
Usage: Ideal when your legal name differs from the name you typically use or if you’re clarifying how people should refer to you.

3. They call me [Name]

Example: “They call me Coach J.”
Meaning: Suggests a title or nickname given by others, often hinting at familiarity, status, or reputation.
Usage: Works well in storytelling, informal conversations, or when introducing a persona or role in a group.

4. I’m known as [Name]

Example: “I’m known as Dr. Chen in the lab.”
Meaning: Indicates a commonly recognized identity, especially within a particular circle or profession.
Usage: Often used in professional or creative settings when referring to a role, title, or stage name.

5. My full name is [Name]

Example: “My full name is Isabella Martinez.”
Meaning: A formal introduction that provides your complete name.
Usage: Best suited for legal, official, or academic contexts where a complete name is necessary.

6. People call me [Name]

Example: “People call me Mike.”
Meaning: Suggests a personal or familiar tone and often implies a chosen or accepted nickname.
Usage: Comfortable for relaxed social settings or informal team introductions.

7. You can call me [Name]

Example: “You can call me Rob.”
Meaning: A polite way of offering someone permission to use a particular name.
Usage: Common in both casual and semi-formal environments; it softens the introduction and adds a friendly touch.

8. I’m referred to as [Name]

Example: “In the office, I’m referred to as ‘the go-to tech guy.’”
Meaning: Points to how others typically identify or refer to you.
Usage: Useful in professional settings or when highlighting your role or reputation.

9. Introductions first—I’m [Name]

Example: “Introductions first—I’m Jasmine.”
Meaning: A warm, slightly playful way to begin a conversation while offering your name.
Usage: Ideal for icebreakers, social mixers, or friendly first encounters.

10. Allow me to introduce myself—my name is [Name]

Example: “Allow me to introduce myself—my name is Mr. Thompson.”
Meaning: A formal and courteous opening used when meeting someone for the first time.
Usage: Appropriate for official events, business presentations, or traditional greetings.

11. Let me introduce myself—I’m [Name]

Example: “Let me introduce myself—I’m Richard, head of marketing.”
Meaning: A slightly more formal self-introduction that sets a respectful and organized tone.
Usage: Ideal for presentations, interviews, networking events, or when establishing authority or credibility early in a conversation.

12. I respond to [Name]

Example: “I respond to Jamie.”
Meaning: Indicates a name that you answer to, often implying it might not be your legal or full name.
Usage: Can be used humorously or informally, especially if you have multiple nicknames or aliases.

13. I answer to [Name]

Example: “I answer to Big Al on weekends.”
Meaning: A playful or casual way to refer to what others call you, usually implying closeness or familiarity.
Usage: Great for informal group settings, family gatherings, or introducing yourself with a lighthearted tone.

14. Everyone calls me [Name]

Example: “Everyone calls me K.”
Meaning: A popular or well-known nickname among your peers, friends, or colleagues.
Usage: Common in social groups, teams, or when you want to emphasize friendliness and approachability.

15. Formally, I’m known as [Name]

Example: “Formally, I’m known as Professor Malik.”
Meaning: Specifies a name or title used in professional or academic environments.
Usage: Useful when distinguishing between formal and informal settings, especially in business or education.

16. My friends call me [Name]

Example: “My friends call me Elle.”
Meaning: Shows a more intimate or personal nickname used in close circles.
Usage: Best used when transitioning from formal to informal conversation or introducing yourself to someone new in a social context.

17. You might know me as [Name]

Example: “You might know me as the Dessert Queen on Instagram.”
Meaning: A fun and modern way to introduce a public persona or online identity.
Usage: Works well for influencers, creatives, or anyone with a recognizable presence in a specific community.

When to Use Different “My Name Is” Alternatives

In Professional Settings

In formal environments such as business meetings, conferences, interviews, or public speaking engagements, it’s better to use polished alternatives like “Let me introduce myself”, “Formally, I’m known as…”, or “Allow me to introduce myself” to project confidence, credibility, and professionalism.

In Casual or Social Settings

For friendly or relaxed conversations, greetings, or social mixers, opt for easygoing phrases like “I’m [Name]”, “You can call me…”, or “My friends call me…”—these phrases sound welcoming, help break the ice, and avoid coming across as too stiff or formal.

In Creative or Performance Contexts

If you’re introducing yourself in an artistic, content-driven, or public context (like performing, podcasting, or being online), use expressive options such as “You might know me as…”, “They call me…”, or “I answer to…” to show personality, build a connection with your audience, and create a lasting impression.

Conclusion

Although “my name is” remains the go-to expression for most introductions, the English language offers a rich collection of alternative phrases that can make your self-introduction feel more natural, tailored, or impactful depending on the situation. Whether you’re trying to sound formal, relaxed, humorous, or memorable, the phrases listed in this article give you the flexibility to choose the tone and impression you want to leave on others.

If you’re looking to broaden your introduction vocabulary even further, exploring online resources like Thesaurus.com or vocabulary-building tools can help you find even more expressive and situation-specific alternatives.

FAQs

What is the meaning of “my name is”?
It’s a direct and clear way of introducing yourself by stating your name. It’s often the first phrase learned in any language for making introductions.

Is “I’m” less formal than “my name is”?
Yes, “I’m” tends to be more casual and conversational, while “my name is” sounds slightly more formal or structured.

Can I say “they call me” in professional settings?
It depends on the context. In a creative industry or informal networking event, it may work well. In more traditional business settings, it’s best to stick to formal phrases.

What is a fun way to introduce yourself?
Try using “You might know me as…” or “I go by…” if you want to spark curiosity or show personality while keeping the conversation light.

Is it okay to use a nickname in introductions?
Yes, especially if that’s what you prefer to be called. Just be clear and confident, and consider saying, “My name is Michael, but you can call me Mike.”