How to Say “I’m (your name).” in Japanese

How do you say “I’m John.” in Japanese?

Today’s phrase is :

I’m (your name).

(your name) です。

 desu

  • I = わたしは (watashiwa)*
  • am = です (desu)

*We do not usually say “わたしは (watashiwa)” in everyday conversation.

When you introduce yourself, put your name just before “です”.


ジョン
John

です
am


It may sound weird not to say “I”, but this is the most common and natural way to introduce yourself in Japanese.

Do not say “わたしの名前は (watashino namaewa) = My name is”. That is a kind of expression you only find in textbooks.

How to Say “What’s your name?” in Japanese

How to Say “Nice to meet you.” in Japanese