Meaning
Used to ask someone for their name informally.
Cultural Background
Romanians value directness in social introductions. It is common to shake hands when meeting. Similar to Romania, the phrase is used identically. Hospitality is a core value. Romanians living abroad often adopt local customs, but keep this phrase for other Romanians. In some rural areas, people might be slightly more formal initially, but the phrase remains standard.
Smile
Always smile when asking someone's name. It makes the question feel much friendlier.
Listen
Listen carefully to the answer so you can repeat their name back to them.
Meaning
Used to ask someone for their name informally.
Smile
Always smile when asking someone's name. It makes the question feel much friendlier.
Listen
Listen carefully to the answer so you can repeat their name back to them.
Names
Romanians often have nicknames. Don't be surprised if they give you a short version of their name.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct reflexive pronoun.
Salut! Cum ___ cheamă?
When asking 'you' (informal), use 'te'.
Choose the correct form for a formal setting.
Which is the formal way to ask a name?
'Vă' is the formal/plural pronoun.
Match the pronoun to the correct person.
Match the pronoun with the subject.
These are the standard reflexive pronouns in Romanian.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Salut! Cum te cheamă? B: _______
When answering for yourself, use 'mă'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesSalut! Cum ___ cheamă?
When asking 'you' (informal), use 'te'.
Which is the formal way to ask a name?
'Vă' is the formal/plural pronoun.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are the standard reflexive pronouns in Romanian.
A: Salut! Cum te cheamă? B: _______
When answering for yourself, use 'mă'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsNo, use 'Cum vă cheamă?' or 'Care este numele dumneavoastră?'.
No, it's the standard way to start a conversation.
Just ask again: 'Scuze, cum te cheamă din nou?'.
It's the 3rd person singular conjugation of 'a chema'.
No, for a group use 'Cum vă cheamă?'.
Yes, the logic is identical.
Just use the name they give you.
Yes, it's fine for informal calls.
The phrase itself doesn't change, but if you talk *about* them, use 'o cheamă'.
Yes, in social settings it's expected.
They might be shy; just introduce yourself first.
No, it's standard informal Romanian.
Related Phrases
Cum te numești?
synonymWhat is your name?
Care e numele tău?
similarWhat is your name?
Încântat de cunoștință
builds onNice to meet you.
Cum vă cheamă?
contrastWhat is your name? (formal)
