What Are Basic Introduction Phrases?
When you meet someone for the first time, you need a few simple tools. Introduction phrases are the words and sentences you use to share your name, learn someone else's name, and begin a conversation. These are the very first building blocks of communication in English. Without them, starting any interaction becomes difficult. With them, the world opens up.
In English, introductions follow a clear and predictable pattern. You state your name. You ask for theirs. You respond warmly. Simple. Consistent. Powerful. For A1 learners, mastering these fundamental expressions provides an immediate, practical foundation. You will use these phrases every single day — at school, at work, in social settings, and even online. They are not just grammar exercises. They are real-life skills.
Why Learn This?
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Introduce yourself clearly by stating your first name and surname
- Ask another person for their name in a polite and natural way
- Respond appropriately when someone introduces themselves to you
- Use formal and informal introduction phrases in different situations
- Understand the difference between a first name and a last name
- Hold a short, simple introductory conversation from beginning to end
Essential Vocabulary
Name - The word people use to identify you; what others call you
First name - Your personal name, given at birth; for example, "Emma" or "David"
Surname - Your family name, shared with relatives; also called "last name"
My - Belonging to me; used before a noun to show possession — "my name"
Your - Belonging to you; used when asking or speaking about the other person
I am - A phrase used to introduce yourself; often shortened to "I'm" in spoken English
Nice - Pleasant, agreeable; used in the expression "nice to meet you"
Meet - To see and speak to someone for the first time
Please - A polite word added to requests to show respect and courtesy
Call - To refer to someone by a particular name — "Please call me Tom"
Pronunciation Guide
Hello - /həˈloʊ/ - Stress falls on the second syllable: he-LO
Hi - /haɪ/ - One clear syllable; rhymes with "my" and "by"
Name - /neɪm/ - One syllable; the vowel sound is a long "ay"
Surname - /ˈsɜːr.neɪm/ - Stress on the first syllable: SUR-name
I'm - /aɪm/ - A contraction of "I am"; one smooth syllable
Nice to meet you - /ˌnaɪs tə ˈmiːt jʊ/ - Stress lands on "meet"; "to" is reduced and quiet
What - /wɒt/ - Short, crisp vowel; do not say "watt" — keep it soft
Please - /pliːz/ - One syllable with a long "ee" sound; ends with a soft "z"
Grammar Structure
Rule 1 — Stating your name: Use "My name is + [name]" or the shorter form "I'm + [name]"
Examples: My name is Sarah Collins. / I'm David.
Rule 2 — Asking for a name: Use "What is your name?" or the informal "What's your name?"
Note: "What's" is the contraction of "What is." Both forms are correct. In conversation, the shorter version sounds more natural.
Rule 3 — Offering a preferred name: Use "Please call me + [name]" when your full name is long or difficult.
Example: My name is Aleksandr, but please call me Alex.
When To Use
Formal Situations
- Meeting a teacher, professor, or manager for the first time
- Attending a job interview or a professional event
- Introducing yourself at a conference or official gathering
- Use full name: first name AND surname — "My name is Emma Johnson."
Informal Situations
- Meeting classmates, new neighbors, or friends of friends
- Casual social events like parties or study groups
- First name only is perfectly sufficient — "Hi, I'm Emma!"
- Contractions and relaxed language are completely acceptable here
Online and Written Introductions
- Starting an email to someone you have never contacted before
- Introducing yourself in an online class or community forum
- Use: "My name is Emma Johnson, and I am a new student."
- Written introductions are typically slightly more formal than spoken ones
Example Sentences
- — My name is Laura. What is your name?
- — Hi! I'm James. Nice to meet you.
- — My full name is Michael Brown, but please call me Mike.
- — What's your surname, please?
- — My last name is Garcia. It's spelled G-A-R-C-I-A.
- — Hello. I'm your new classmate. My name is Yuki.
- — Nice to meet you, Anna. I'm Peter.
- — Excuse me, what is your first name?
- — My name is Sophie Williams. I'm from London.
- — It's a pleasure to meet you. My name is Dr. Chen.
Mini Dialogues
Lucas: — Hi! I'm Lucas. What's your name?
Mia: — Hello! My name is Mia. Nice to meet you, Lucas.
Lucas: — Nice to meet you too. What's your surname?
Mia: — My surname is Parker. Mia Parker. And yours?
Lucas: — I'm Lucas Fernandez. Let's sit together!
Ms. Turner: — Good morning. My name is Susan Turner. I'm from the marketing team.
Mr. Park: — Good morning, Ms. Turner. I'm James Park. It's a pleasure to meet you.
Ms. Turner: — The pleasure is mine, Mr. Park. Please, call me Susan.
Mr. Park: — Of course, Susan. And please call me James.
Ms. Turner: — Wonderful. Shall we begin?
Teacher: — Hello! Welcome to the class. What is your name, please?
Student: — Hi! My name is Alina Kozlov.
Teacher: — Nice to meet you, Alina. Is that your first name — A-L-I-N-A?
Student: — Yes, that's correct. And my surname is Kozlov — K-O-Z-L-O-V.
Teacher: — Perfect. Welcome, Alina. Please take a seat.
Student: — Thank you very much.
Correct vs. Incorrect Usage
Practical Tips
- Use contractions in speech. Say "I'm" instead of "I am" and "What's" instead of "What is." Contractions sound natural. Native speakers use them constantly.
- Repeat the other person's name. When someone tells you their name, say it back immediately — "Nice to meet you, Sarah." This helps you remember it. It also sounds warm and attentive.
- Spell difficult names. If your name is unusual or complex, spell it out — "My name is Krzysztof — K-R-Z-Y-S-Z-T-O-F." This prevents confusion and shows consideration.
- Offer a nickname proactively. If your name is long or challenging to pronounce, suggest an alternative early — "My name is Bartholomew, but please call me Barry." Simple. Helpful.
- Match the formality level. At a job interview, use your full name. With classmates, your first name is enough. Read the situation. Adjust accordingly.
- Smile when you introduce yourself. Language is only part of communication. A warm smile combined with eye contact makes any introduction more memorable and genuine.
Alternative Expressions
Ways to Say Your Name:
Ways to Ask for Someone's Name:
Responses to "Nice to meet you":
Cultural Notes
First Names vs. Surnames in English Culture: In many English-speaking countries, particularly the United States and Australia, people move to first names very quickly. Even in professional settings, colleagues often use first names after a brief introduction. However, in the United Kingdom and more formal environments, it is safer to use titles and surnames — Mr. Brown, Dr. Smith — until invited to do otherwise. When in doubt, follow the other person's lead.
Handshakes and Eye Contact: In most English-speaking cultures, a firm handshake combined with steady eye contact is the standard greeting when meeting someone formally for the first time. It signals confidence and respect. In casual, informal introductions among younger people, a simple wave or nod is entirely acceptable. Physical contact beyond a handshake — hugging, kissing on the cheek — is generally reserved for people who already know each other well.
Nicknames Are Common and Friendly: English speakers frequently use shortened or alternative versions of names. Robert becomes Bob. Elizabeth becomes Liz or Beth. William becomes Will or Bill. When someone offers you their nickname, use it — it is a sign of friendliness and trust. Refusing to use someone's preferred name can feel distant or even rude.