What Is Your Name in Chinese? A Simple Guide for Beginners

When you start learning Chinese, one of the first questions you will hear is: “What is your name in Chinese?” Names are a key part of self-introduction. In Mandarin, knowing how to say “My name is…” in Chinese can help you connect with new friends, teachers, or classmates. This guide explains how to introduce yourself, gives examples with pinyin, and shares cultural tips for English speakers.

If you’re looking for high-quality online Chinese classes for kids, WuKong Chinese offers age-appropriate lessons led by native speakers with a deep understanding of the Chinese language and culture.

How to Say “What Is Your Name?” in Chinese

In Mandarin, the phrase is:

你叫什么名字？ (Nǐ jiào shénme míngzì?) Literal meaning: “You are called what name?” English meaning: “What is your name?”

This question is polite, simple, and widely used. You can ask this in school, during travel, or when meeting new friends.

How to Say “My Name Is in Chinese”

To answer, you say:

我叫 [your name]. (Wǒ jiào [name].) Literal meaning: “I am called [name].” English meaning: “My name is [name].”

Examples:

• 我叫大卫 (Wǒ jiào Dàwèi). → My name is David.
• 我叫安娜 (Wǒ jiào Ānnà). → My name is Anna.

If you already have a Chinese name, you can use it here. Many Chinese names are based on meaning, sound, or family tradition.

Choosing a Chinese Name

Many learners wonder how to translate their English name into Chinese. Sometimes teachers give students names based on sound. For example, David becomes 大卫 (Dàwèi). Anna becomes 安娜 (Ānnà).

Other times, names are chosen based on meaning. For example, the name Grace may be translated as 恩惠 (Ēnhuì), which means kindness or favor. A Chinese teacher can help you choose a name that fits your personality and is easy for native speakers to understand.

WuKong Chinese, a program for kids ages 3–18, often guides students in choosing meaningful Chinese names. This makes introductions fun and culturally rich.

Cultural Tips for Saying Your Name in Chinese

1. Order of Names: In Chinese, the family name comes first, followed by the given name. For example, 李华 (Lǐ Huá) → Li is the family name, Hua is the given name.
2. Politeness: You can add “很高兴认识你 (Hěn gāoxìng rènshi nǐ)” → “Nice to meet you” after saying your name.
3. Practice: Pronouncing tones is important. “Wǒ jiào” with the correct tones helps listeners understand you clearly.

Using “My Name Is in Chinese” in Real Life

In the classroom: “我叫玛丽 (Wǒ jiào Mǎlì).” → My name is Mary.

Online learning: Introduce yourself to your teacher on WuKong Education’s platform with “我叫 + your name.”

In travel: When meeting friends in China, a simple “我叫…” makes a good impression.

Final words

Learning to say “What is your name in Chinese?” and “My name is in Chinese” is a small but powerful step in Mandarin learning. It helps you build confidence, show respect, and start conversations.

If you want to practice introductions and learn more cultural expressions, WuKong Education offers classes with native teachers who guide children and beginners step by step.

Mao Ying | WuKong Chinese Teacher

Master’s degree in International Chinese Education from Peking University. Dedicated to the field of Chinese language education, with 7 years of experience as an international Chinese language teacher.