French Self-Introduction: The Essential Guide

Updated on 2024-12-09

Basic Introduction Phrases

The foundation of French self-introductions centers on "Je m'appelle" (My name is) and "Je suis" (I am).

Core Phrases:

  1. "Je m'appelle Sophie" (My name is Sophie)
  • Most common and polite way to state your name
  • Literally means "I call myself"
  1. "Je suis Paul" (I am Paul)
  • Also correct but slightly less formal
  • Often used in casual settings

Follow-up Information

  1. "J'ai vingt ans" (I am twenty years old)
  • Age is typically mentioned after name
  • Note: French uses "avoir" (to have) for age
  1. "Je viens de Canada" (I'm from Canada)
  • Use "venir de" to state origin
  • Include "le/la" for most countries: "Je viens de la France"

Professional Introductions

  1. "Je suis professeur" (I am a teacher)
  • No article needed for professions
  • State profession directly after "Je suis"
  1. "Je travaille dans l'informatique" (I work in IT)
  • Use "travailler dans" for industry sectors
  • Include appropriate article (le/la/les/l')

Social Setting Examples

  1. Formal: "Bonjour, je m'appelle Marie. Je suis enchantée de faire votre connaissance." (Hello, my name is Marie. I'm delighted to meet you.)

  2. Casual: "Salut! Moi c'est Pierre. Je suis étudiant." (Hi! I'm Pierre. I'm a student.)

Cultural Tips

  • Always say "bonjour" before introducing yourself
  • Use "vous" in formal situations
  • Handshakes are common in professional settings
  • La bise (cheek kisses) for social settings with people you know

Additional Useful Phrases

  1. "Je suis ravi(e) de vous rencontrer" (I'm happy to meet you)
  • Add 'e' if you're female
  • Very polite, suitable for all situations
  1. "Je suis ici pour..." (I am here for...)
  • Perfect for explaining your presence
  • Example: "Je suis ici pour le stage" (I'm here for the internship)

Practice Dialogue

A: "Bonjour! Je m'appelle Thomas." B: "Enchantée, je suis Marie." A: "Je viens de Belgique. Et vous?" B: "Je suis française. Je travaille comme architecte."

Important Notes

  • Keep introductions brief initially
  • Listen for cues about formality level
  • Mirror the other person's level of detail
  • Always maintain politeness

Also Read

What is leçon.ai?

Learn French naturally with leçon.ai

Our AI-native iOS app makes language learning effortless and intuitive

Join the waitlist to be first in line when we launch →