Meaning
Asking someone's name informally.
Cultural Background
Serbians are very social. Asking for a name is the first step to a long conversation. The phrase is identical in Croatia. It is used in the same way. Very similar cultural norms. Hospitality is key. The phrase is used universally. It is the standard way to initiate contact.
Smile!
Always smile when you ask this. It makes the question sound friendly and inviting.
Don't be too formal
If you use 'Kako se zovete?' with a peer, they might think you are being sarcastic or distant.
Meaning
Asking someone's name informally.
Smile!
Always smile when you ask this. It makes the question sound friendly and inviting.
Don't be too formal
If you use 'Kako se zovete?' with a peer, they might think you are being sarcastic or distant.
Follow up
Always follow up with 'Drago mi je' (Nice to meet you) after they tell you their name.
The 'Ti' shift
In Serbia, you can switch to 'Ti' very quickly. Don't be afraid to use it.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
Zdravo, kako ___ zoveš?
The verb 'zvati' is reflexive, so it needs 'se'.
Which is the correct informal way to ask for a name?
Choose the best option:
This is the standard, polite, informal way to ask.
Match the question to the correct response.
Match: 1. Kako se zoveš? | 2. Kako se zovete?
Match the register of the question to the answer.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Zdravo! ___? | B: Ja sam Ana.
The response 'Ja sam Ana' indicates the question was about the name.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesZdravo, kako ___ zoveš?
The verb 'zvati' is reflexive, so it needs 'se'.
Choose the best option:
This is the standard, polite, informal way to ask.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Match the register of the question to the answer.
A: Zdravo! ___? | B: Ja sam Ana.
The response 'Ja sam Ana' indicates the question was about the name.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsNo, use the formal 'Kako se zovete?' for teachers.
Not at all, it's the standard way to start a conversation.
They might be shy, just smile and introduce yourself first.
Yes, 'Kako se zoveš?' is standard. 'Zoveš se kako?' sounds very strange.
Yes, it's perfectly fine for informal calls.
'Zoveš' is for 'you', 'zovu' is for 'they'.
Yes, it is universal in Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia, and Montenegro.
Usually, just your first name is enough in informal settings.
Just ask again: 'Izvini, kako se zoveš? Zaboravio sam.'
No, it is the same for men and women.
Only if you are being very friendly, otherwise stick to formal.
It's a reflexive verb, meaning 'to call oneself'.
Related Phrases
Kako ti je ime?
synonymWhat is your name?
Kako se zovete?
contrastWhat is your name? (formal)
Drago mi je.
builds onNice to meet you.
Odakle si?
similarWhere are you from?
