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:
- "Je m'appelle Sophie" (My name is Sophie)
- Most common and polite way to state your name
- Literally means "I call myself"
- "Je suis Paul" (I am Paul)
- Also correct but slightly less formal
- Often used in casual settings
Follow-up Information
- "J'ai vingt ans" (I am twenty years old)
- Age is typically mentioned after name
- Note: French uses "avoir" (to have) for age
- "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
- "Je suis professeur" (I am a teacher)
- No article needed for professions
- State profession directly after "Je suis"
- "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
-
Formal: "Bonjour, je m'appelle Marie. Je suis enchantée de faire votre connaissance." (Hello, my name is Marie. I'm delighted to meet you.)
-
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
- "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
- "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