Meaning
An informal question to ask someone's name.
Cultural Background
The 'tu' vs 'vous' distinction is strictly observed. Using 'ton nom' with a stranger over 30 is often seen as a lack of education. Quebecers use 'tu' much more readily. It is common to hear 'Quel est ton nom ?' in shops or between people who have just met. Names are deeply tied to family 'griots' (storytellers). Asking a name might be followed by asking for the 'nom de famille' to place the person in a social lineage. In the French 'gaming' community, 'ton nom' is often replaced by 'ton pseudo' (your handle).
The 'Toi' Add-on
After they answer, they will likely ask 'Et toi ?' (And you?). Be ready to say 'Moi, c'est [Name]'.
The Surname Trap
If you are in a formal setting, 'nom' means 'last name'. If you need the first name, ask for the 'prénom'.
Meaning
An informal question to ask someone's name.
The 'Toi' Add-on
After they answer, they will likely ask 'Et toi ?' (And you?). Be ready to say 'Moi, c'est [Name]'.
The Surname Trap
If you are in a formal setting, 'nom' means 'last name'. If you need the first name, ask for the 'prénom'.
Smile First
In France, a smile and a 'Bonjour' are required before asking 'Quel est ton nom ?'. Going straight to the question is considered aggressive.
Test Yourself
Complete the question with the correct words.
Salut ! ______ est ______ nom ?
We use 'Quel' (masculine) and 'ton' (masculine) because 'nom' is a masculine noun.
Which of these is the most appropriate for a formal job interview?
Asking for the interviewer's name:
'Votre' is the formal version of 'ton', necessary for professional settings.
Fill in the missing line.
Marc: Salut ! Je m'appelle Marc. Sophie: Enchantée Marc ! ______ ? Marc: Je suis Thomas.
The response 'Je suis Thomas' indicates that Sophie asked for his name.
Match the phrase to the person you are talking to.
1. A child in the park. 2. A new colleague at a casual startup. 3. The President of France.
'Ton' is for children and peers; 'votre' is for high-ranking officials.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Nom vs Prénom
Practice Bank
4 exercisesSalut ! ______ est ______ nom ?
We use 'Quel' (masculine) and 'ton' (masculine) because 'nom' is a masculine noun.
Asking for the interviewer's name:
'Votre' is the formal version of 'ton', necessary for professional settings.
Marc: Salut ! Je m'appelle Marc. Sophie: Enchantée Marc ! ______ ? Marc: Je suis Thomas.
The response 'Je suis Thomas' indicates that Sophie asked for his name.
1. A child in the park. 2. A new colleague at a casual startup. 3. The President of France.
'Ton' is for children and peers; 'votre' is for high-ranking officials.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, 'Comment t'appelles-tu ?' is more common in spoken French. 'Quel est ton nom ?' is more direct and often used by learners or in specific contexts like filling out a form.
Yes! You can ask a dog's owner 'Quel est son nom ?' (What is its name?) or talk to the dog directly using 'ton nom'.
'Quel' is an adjective that modifies the noun 'nom'. 'Quoi' is a pronoun used differently. Think of 'Quel' as 'Which'.
Generally, no. Use 'Quel est votre nom ?' or 'Comment vous appelez-vous ?' to show respect.
You can say: 'Désolé, j'ai oublié, quel est ton nom ?' (Sorry, I forgot, what is your name?).
In casual conversation, yes. In official documents, 'nom' is the family name and 'prénom' is the first name.
The most common ways are 'Je m'appelle [Name]' or 'Moi, c'est [Name]'.
Yes, it is universally understood, though regional preferences for 'Comment t'appelles-tu' vary.
Yes, but it is very informal. Save it for friends or people your own age in a very casual setting.
If asking a group: 'Quels sont vos noms ?'
Related Phrases
Comment t'appelles-tu ?
similarHow do you call yourself?
Enchanté
builds onNice to meet you
Quel est votre nom ?
specialized formWhat is your name? (Formal)
Je m'appelle...
similarMy name is...
