Bedeutung
An informal way to ask someone's name.
Kultureller Hintergrund
The 'tu' vs 'vous' distinction is very strict. Using 'Comment t'appelles-tu ?' with a stranger over 30 is often seen as a sign of poor education. Quebecers use 'tu' much more readily than the French. You might hear 'Comment t'appelles-tu ?' in situations that would require 'vous' in Paris. In many French-speaking African countries, respect for elders is paramount. 'Comment t'appelles-tu ?' is strictly for peers or younger people. Belgian French is similar to France in its 'tu/vous' usage, but the tone is often perceived as slightly more relaxed in social gatherings.
The 'Tu' Rule
If you are unsure, use 'vous'. But if the other person is under 18, 'Comment t'appelles-tu ?' is always safe.
The Hyphen
In writing, never forget the hyphen between 'appelles' and 'tu'. It's a common mistake even for natives!
Bedeutung
An informal way to ask someone's name.
The 'Tu' Rule
If you are unsure, use 'vous'. But if the other person is under 18, 'Comment t'appelles-tu ?' is always safe.
The Hyphen
In writing, never forget the hyphen between 'appelles' and 'tu'. It's a common mistake even for natives!
First Names Only
When you use this phrase, expect a first name in return. If you want a last name, you're in the wrong register!
Teste dich selbst
Complete the question with the correct reflexive pronoun and verb form.
Comment ___ __________-tu ?
The subject is 'tu', so you need the reflexive pronoun 't'' and the verb form 'appelles'.
Which of these is the most appropriate way to ask a new friend their name?
Select the best option:
'Comment t'appelles-tu ?' is the standard informal way for peers.
Fill in the missing line in the dialogue.
Léo: Salut ! Moi, c'est Léo. ___________ ? Sarah: Je m'appelle Sarah. Enchantée !
Sarah answers with her name, so the question must be asking for it.
Match the phrase to the correct situation.
Phrase: 'Comment t'appelles-tu ?'
You use 'tu' with children, but 'vous' with bosses and police officers.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Visuelle Lernhilfen
Tu vs Vous for Names
Aufgabensammlung
4 AufgabenComment ___ __________-tu ?
The subject is 'tu', so you need the reflexive pronoun 't'' and the verb form 'appelles'.
Select the best option:
'Comment t'appelles-tu ?' is the standard informal way for peers.
Léo: Salut ! Moi, c'est Léo. ___________ ? Sarah: Je m'appelle Sarah. Enchantée !
Sarah answers with her name, so the question must be asking for it.
Phrase: 'Comment t'appelles-tu ?'
You use 'tu' with children, but 'vous' with bosses and police officers.
🎉 Ergebnis: /4
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenIt's very blunt and can be seen as rude. It's better to use the full phrase or 'Tu t'appelles comment ?'.
Because it is conjugated with 'tu'. In French, almost all 'tu' forms end in 's'.
Yes, it is very common in literature and formal dialogue in novels.
Look at the other person. If they are your age or younger, use 'tu'. If they are older or in a position of authority, use 'vous'.
No, that is 'Comment ça va ?'. 'Comment t'appelles-tu ?' specifically asks for a name.
The most common answer is 'Je m'appelle [Name]' or simply 'Moi, c'est [Name]'.
Because 'appelles' starts with a vowel. We drop the 'e' to make it easier to say. This is called elision.
Yes, though they might more frequently say 'C'est quoi ton nom ?' in very casual settings.
Generally no. Use 'Comment vous appelez-vous ?' unless the teacher has asked to be called 'tu'.
It literally means 'to call oneself'.
Verwandte Redewendungen
Je m'appelle...
builds onMy name is...
Comment vous appelez-vous ?
specialized formWhat is your name? (Formal)
Tu t'appelles comment ?
similarWhat's your name? (Casual)
Enchanté
builds onNice to meet you
