Finding the right words to introduce yourself can make a world of difference. Whether you’re writing an email, meeting someone new, or giving a presentation, the way you say “My name is” can set the tone for your entire interaction. Sometimes, “My name is” feels too formal or too repetitive — and you might want something that sounds more natural, friendly, or memorable.
That’s where these alternatives come in. Below, you’ll find 30 thoughtful and creative ways to say “My name is,” complete with explanations, examples, tones, and best-use tips — helping you express yourself with both warmth and confidence.
What Does “My Name Is” Mean?
The phrase “My name is” is the simplest and most direct way to introduce yourself. It tells someone who you are — typically followed by your name — and helps begin communication clearly and respectfully.
It’s a neutral and universally understood phrase, perfect for both casual and formal settings. However, depending on the situation, it can sound too plain, stiff, or impersonal, especially in friendly or creative introductions. That’s why having alternatives helps you adapt your tone and personality to the moment.
Is It Professional or Polite to Say “My Name Is”?
Yes — saying “My name is” is both professional and polite. It’s considered the standard form for introductions, whether you’re at a meeting, interview, or social event.
However, if you want to sound more approachable, confident, or personable, alternatives can make your introduction feel more engaging and natural. For instance, “I’m Sarah,” feels more conversational, while “Allow me to introduce myself — I’m Sarah,” sounds more polished and formal.
Pros and Cons of Saying “My Name Is”
Pros:
- Clear and universally understood
- Professional and polite in all settings
- Works in both written and spoken contexts
Cons:
- Can sound robotic or overly formal
- Doesn’t reflect much personality
- May feel repetitive in casual or friendly exchanges
Synonyms For “My Name Is”
- I’m [Your Name]
- This is [Your Name]
- It’s [Your Name]
- Allow me to introduce myself — I’m [Your Name]
- You can call me [Nickname]
- I go by [Name/Nickname]
- People know me as [Name]
- Most people call me [Name]
- I answer to [Name]
- They call me [Name]
- You might remember me as [Name]
- I’m known as [Name]
- Please call me [Name]
- Let me introduce myself — I’m [Your Name]
- I’m referred to as [Name]
- My friends call me [Nickname]
- I respond to [Name]
- You’re speaking with [Name]
- This would be [Name]
- I’m called [Name]
- Folks know me as [Name]
- You’re talking to [Name]
- I introduce myself as [Name]
- Officially, I’m [Name]
- On paper, I’m [Name]
- The name’s [Name]
- I’m the one they call [Name]
- In case we haven’t met, I’m [Name]
- You may know me as [Name]
- Formally, I’m [Name]
1. I’m [Your Name]
Definition: A shortened and friendlier form of “My name is.”
Detailed Explanation: This version is simple and natural. It’s commonly used in everyday conversations, informal emails, and introductions where you want to sound approachable.
Example: “Hey! I’m Sarah — nice to meet you!”
Best Use: Casual conversations, social events, friendly introductions.
Tone: Warm, relaxed, conversational.
Additional Notes: Best for everyday use and small talk — especially when you don’t need extra formality.
2. This is [Your Name]
Definition: A direct self-introduction, often used on calls or in messages.
Detailed Explanation: Useful in virtual or phone settings, “This is [Your Name]” helps identify yourself quickly without sounding too stiff.
Example: “Hi, this is Daniel from HR.”
Best Use: Phone calls, virtual meetings, or formal emails.
Tone: Professional, clear, courteous.
Additional Notes: Ideal when you’re representing your company or department.
3. It’s [Your Name]
Definition: A casual and friendly alternative to “My name is.”
Detailed Explanation: This phrase feels more conversational and is often used when the other person may already know who you are.
Example: “Oh hey, it’s Lisa from your yoga class!”
Best Use: Informal introductions or reminders of identity.
Tone: Friendly, light, familiar.
Additional Notes: Avoid in formal contexts — may sound too casual.
4. Allow me to introduce myself — I’m [Your Name]
Definition: A polished and courteous introduction.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase feels elegant and respectful — great for formal settings or first meetings.
Example: “Allow me to introduce myself — I’m Dr. James Porter, the new department head.”
Best Use: Professional introductions, presentations, and interviews.
Tone: Polite, confident, formal.
Additional Notes: Adds authority and professionalism without being cold.
5. You can call me [Nickname]
Definition: A warm way to share your preferred name.
Detailed Explanation: It signals friendliness and openness, helping people feel comfortable using your chosen name.
Example: “My full name’s Elizabeth, but you can call me Liz.”
Best Use: Casual and semi-formal introductions.
Tone: Approachable, friendly, kind.
Additional Notes: Perfect for creating connection right from the start.
6. I go by [Name/Nickname]
Definition: Indicates your preferred name or what people usually call you.
Detailed Explanation: Often used when your given name differs from your commonly used one.
Example: “My name is Alexander, but I go by Alex.”
Best Use: Professional and social introductions alike.
Tone: Natural, polite, clear.
Additional Notes: Helps clarify how others should address you.
7. People know me as [Name]
Definition: Suggests familiarity or recognition in a group or community.
Detailed Explanation: It’s a confident, personable way to share how you’re known.
Example: “People know me as Sam — I handle the marketing projects.”
Best Use: Networking, team meetings, casual professional settings.
Tone: Confident, approachable.
Additional Notes: Gives off an established, social energy.
8. Most people call me [Name]
Definition: A softer, friendly version of “You can call me.”
Detailed Explanation: Helps your introduction sound relaxed and inviting.
Example: “Most people call me Jen.”
Best Use: Everyday introductions, workplaces, or group events.
Tone: Casual, warm, relatable.
Additional Notes: Encourages a sense of comfort and friendliness.
9. I answer to [Name]
Definition: A playful or lighthearted introduction.
Detailed Explanation: It’s humorous, showing you’re easygoing and fun.
Example: “I answer to Chris — or just ‘hey you’ when it’s busy!”
Best Use: Casual or humorous settings.
Tone: Light, humorous, personable.
Additional Notes: Avoid in professional introductions.
10. They call me [Name]
Definition: A confident, storytelling-style introduction.
Detailed Explanation: It can sound mysterious or cool, often used in creative or casual contexts.
Example: “They call me Jay — the problem solver.”
Best Use: Creative industries, friendly conversations.
Tone: Confident, informal, expressive.
Additional Notes: Avoid in formal introductions.
11. You might remember me as [Name]
Definition: Used when reintroducing yourself.
Detailed Explanation: Perfect for follow-ups or when you’ve met someone briefly before.
Example: “You might remember me as Clara from last year’s conference.”
Best Use: Networking, reconnecting emails.
Tone: Polite, warm, conversational.
Additional Notes: Creates instant recognition and connection.
12. I’m known as [Name]
Definition: Suggests how others recognize or refer to you.
Detailed Explanation: It can carry a tone of reputation or identity.
Example: “I’m known as Dr. Patel around the hospital.”
Best Use: Professional introductions, reputational contexts.
Tone: Polished, modestly confident.
Additional Notes: Adds subtle authority and trust.
13. Please call me [Name]
Definition: A polite invitation to use your preferred name.
Detailed Explanation: This formality blends respect and warmth perfectly.
Example: “Please call me John.”
Best Use: Professional emails, meetings, formal introductions.
Tone: Polite, respectful, warm.
Additional Notes: A great balance between friendliness and professionalism.
(Due to message length limits, I’ll continue with alternatives 14–30, conclusion, FAQs, and the final quick list in the next response. Would you like me to continue right away?)
You said:
continue
ChatGPT said:
Perfect! Let’s continue with the remaining Alternatives 14–30, followed by the Conclusion, 5 FAQs, and a final quick-reference list of all phrases. I’ll keep the same warm, professional, and caring tone throughout.
14. Let me introduce myself — I’m [Your Name]
Definition: A polite and confident way to open a conversation.
Detailed Explanation: This phrase is slightly more formal than “Allow me to introduce myself” and feels natural in both speeches and meetings.
Example: “Let me introduce myself — I’m Rachel, the new community manager.”
Best Use: Presentations, interviews, and public introductions.
Tone: Respectful, confident, professional.
Additional Notes: A strong opener that shows self-assurance without arrogance.
15. I’m referred to as [Your Name]
Definition: A formal way of saying what people call you.
Detailed Explanation: Commonly used in academic or official contexts, it implies your title or formal identity.
Example: “I’m referred to as Professor Lin in most university documents.”
Best Use: Academic, legal, or business contexts.
Tone: Formal, respectful, neutral.
Additional Notes: Avoid in casual conversations; it may sound too stiff.
16. My friends call me [Nickname]
Definition: A friendly way to share a personal side of your identity.
Detailed Explanation: It bridges formality and warmth — great for when you want to sound personable.
Example: “My name’s Jonathan, but my friends call me Jon.”
Best Use: Networking, friendly or semi-casual introductions.
Tone: Warm, relaxed, inviting.
Additional Notes: Adds a sense of authenticity and openness.
17. I respond to [Name]
Definition: A humorous or lighthearted way to introduce yourself.
Detailed Explanation: Often used jokingly, it shows you don’t take yourself too seriously.
Example: “I respond to the name ‘Sam’ and occasionally to ‘coffee.’”
Best Use: Friendly, fun, or informal situations.
Tone: Playful, humorous, approachable.
Additional Notes: Avoid in formal business introductions.
18. You’re speaking with [Your Name]
Definition: A clear and courteous way to identify yourself, often over the phone.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for phone calls or online chats, it quickly clarifies who’s talking.
Example: “You’re speaking with Amanda from customer support.”
Best Use: Professional calls, customer service, business conversations.
Tone: Polite, direct, confident.
Additional Notes: Shows clarity and professionalism.
19. This would be [Your Name]
Definition: A soft, modest alternative often used in writing or formal conversations.
Detailed Explanation: This phrasing adds subtle humility, making it sound thoughtful and respectful.
Example: “If you’re looking for the project lead, that would be me — I’m Jamie.”
Best Use: Emails, written introductions, formal dialogue.
Tone: Polite, respectful, understated.
Additional Notes: Shows grace and humility.
20. I’m called [Your Name]
Definition: A neutral and globally common way to introduce yourself.
Detailed Explanation: Often used by non-native English speakers; it’s clear and friendly.
Example: “I’m called Maria.”
Best Use: Language learning, multicultural or international contexts.
Tone: Simple, warm, approachable.
Additional Notes: Globally understood and suitable in both casual and formal settings.
21. Folks know me as [Name]
Definition: A casual, folksy way to share your identity.
Detailed Explanation: Carries warmth and friendliness — ideal for informal introductions.
Example: “Folks know me as Benny around here.”
Best Use: Community events, casual workplaces, social gatherings.
Tone: Friendly, relaxed, down-to-earth.
Additional Notes: Avoid in business or formal contexts.
22. You’re talking to [Your Name]
Definition: A clear, confident identification phrase.
Detailed Explanation: Perfect for phone or chat introductions when someone asks who you are.
Example: “You’re talking to Chris — how can I help you today?”
Best Use: Customer support, professional conversations.
Tone: Polite, confident, straightforward.
Additional Notes: Professional and warm — strikes a good tone balance.
23. I introduce myself as [Your Name]
Definition: Indicates how you typically present yourself.
Detailed Explanation: This version shows self-awareness and consistency in how you identify yourself.
Example: “I introduce myself as Dr. Lee in professional settings.”
Best Use: Academic or professional settings.
Tone: Formal, informative, self-assured.
Additional Notes: Shows intentionality and self-respect.
24. Officially, I’m [Your Name]
Definition: Clarifies your formal name while allowing a friendly touch.
Detailed Explanation: Great for when your legal or formal name differs from your casual one.
Example: “Officially, I’m Jonathan, but everyone calls me Jon.”
Best Use: Professional introductions with a friendly twist.
Tone: Balanced — formal yet approachable.
Additional Notes: Perfect for bridging professional and personal tones.
25. On paper, I’m [Your Name]
Definition: A humorous or informal way to share your official name.
Detailed Explanation: Shows playfulness and personality, often used when your name differs from your nickname.
Example: “On paper, I’m Jennifer, but everyone calls me Jen.”
Best Use: Friendly or casual introductions.
Tone: Playful, warm, witty.
Additional Notes: Avoid in very formal environments.
26. The name’s [Your Name]
Definition: A confident and smooth way to introduce yourself.
Detailed Explanation: Famous for its cinematic flair (like “The name’s Bond, James Bond”).
Example: “The name’s Carter — pleasure to meet you.”
Best Use: Networking, confident or light-hearted introductions.
Tone: Charismatic, confident, stylish.
Additional Notes: Use sparingly; it can sound theatrical.
27. I’m the one they call [Name]
Definition: A playful, story-like introduction.
Detailed Explanation: This adds mystery or fun to your introduction — great for creative environments.
Example: “I’m the one they call Max — the team’s tech wizard.”
Best Use: Creative or informal settings.
Tone: Playful, expressive, confident.
Additional Notes: Adds personality and flair.
28. In case we haven’t met, I’m [Name]
Definition: A polite reintroduction or introduction in groups.
Detailed Explanation: Ideal for meetings or reconnecting with people you might have seen before.
Example: “In case we haven’t met, I’m Sarah, part of the design team.”
Best Use: Meetings, events, networking sessions.
Tone: Warm, polite, professional.
Additional Notes: Gentle and inclusive in tone.
29. You may know me as [Name]
Definition: Indicates previous familiarity or reputation.
Detailed Explanation: Perfect for when people might already know of you but haven’t met you.
Example: “You may know me as Leo from the marketing blog.”
Best Use: Networking, public events, social introductions.
Tone: Confident, friendly, professional.
Additional Notes: Adds familiarity and charm.
30. Formally, I’m [Name]
Definition: A polished way to state your official or full name.
Detailed Explanation: Used when differentiating between your formal identity and nickname.
Example: “Formally, I’m Katherine, but most people call me Kate.”
Best Use: Professional emails, academic introductions.
Tone: Polite, elegant, formal.
Additional Notes: A sophisticated way to maintain formality and warmth.
Conclusion
Your introduction is more than just a formality — it’s an invitation for connection. Whether you choose “I’m Sarah” for warmth or “Allow me to introduce myself — I’m Dr. Sarah Blake” for professionalism, your tone and context matter most.
By using these 30 thoughtful alternatives to “My name is,” you can express confidence, approachability, and authenticity in any setting. The goal isn’t to sound perfect — it’s to sound like you.
FAQs
1. What’s the best way to introduce yourself professionally?
Use phrases like “Allow me to introduce myself — I’m [Name]” or “You’re speaking with [Name]” for clear, polished introductions.
2. How can I make my introduction more memorable?
Add warmth or a personal touch: “I’m [Name] — I work with the community outreach team.”
3. Is it okay to say just “I’m [Name]” in professional settings?
Yes — it’s friendly and acceptable as long as the overall tone is respectful.
4. Should I use humor in introductions?
Only in informal settings where it feels natural. Avoid humor in official introductions unless you’re sure it’s appropriate.
5. How can I sound confident while introducing myself?
Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and choose strong phrases like “Let me introduce myself” or “You’re speaking with…”
“Emma Rose at Grammar Synonyms is your go-to expert for everything related to language and expression. Whether you’re refining your grammar, searching for the perfect synonym, or looking for creative ways to improve your writing, Emma Rose provides the tools and inspiration you need. With a wide range of resources designed to elevate your communication, Grammar Synonyms helps you find just the right words to make every sentence shine.
