你叫什么名字？

Using this phrase is incredibly simple. You do not need to change the word order for a question. Just say the statement as it is. In Chinese, the question word 什么 stays exactly where the answer would go. To answer, you just swap 你 for 我 (I) and keep the rest: 我叫 [Your Name]. It is like a verbal Lego set.

Use this when meeting someone around your own age. It is perfect at a party or a coffee shop. It works great when you are introduced to a new classmate. If you are texting a new language partner, this is the standard opener. It feels friendly, direct, and clear.

Avoid using this with people much older than you. It can sound a bit too blunt for elders or high-ranking bosses. Do not use it if you are trying to be extremely polite. In those cases, it might feel like you are questioning a child. For formal events, there are much fancier ways to ask.

In Chinese culture, names carry a lot of weight. Often, people might just share their surname first. If you ask 你叫什么名字？, they might give you their full name. Historically, Chinese names have deep meanings chosen by grandparents. By asking this, you are opening a door to their family history. Just be prepared—some people might give themselves an English nickname too!

You can shorten it to 你叫什么？ for a faster, more casual vibe. If you want to be slightly more polite, add a smile. If you are in a group, you might ask 他叫什么名字？ to find out about someone else. It is a versatile tool for any social kit.