Tired of saying “my name is” every time you introduce yourself? It’s a phrase that gets old, fast, and doesnāt always show off your creativity or personality. But hereās the good newsāthere are plenty of alternative ways to introduce yourself that sound fresh and exciting!
Itās time to ditch the overused phrase and embrace language that stands out. Letās make your introductions as unique as you are! Explore the full list below, and youāll discover ways to express yourself with confidence, clarity, and a touch of personality.
In this post, we’re diving into 25 compelling alternatives to the phrase “my name is”, each designed to help you speak and write with more style and precision. Whether you’re crafting a personal introduction, a professional bio, or just want to switch things up in your casual conversations, these alternatives will breathe new life into your communication.
Alternative to āMy name isā
1. Iām [Name]
Explanation: This is a simple and straightforward way to introduce yourself. It’s casual but effective, and works in almost any setting.
Usage examples:
- Iām Sarah.
- Iām Mark, nice to meet you!
- Iām Emily, and I work in marketing.
- Iām James, your new neighbor.
- Iām Clara, excited to be here.
Why it works:
Itās direct and approachable. This introduction feels natural and familiar, making it a great choice for any casual situation.
2. This is [Name]
Explanation: Typically used when introducing yourself in a group or when presenting someone else.
Usage examples:
- This is John, my best friend.
- This is Mike, heāll be joining us today.
- This is Laura, my colleague.
- This is Anna, she just moved in next door.
- This is Ben, heās the new manager.
Why it works:
“This is” is often used in social or group settings and helps keep the introduction brief and efficient.
3. You can call me [Name]
Explanation: A casual and friendly introduction where you invite others to use your affirming name.
Usage examples:
- You can call me Tom.
- You can call me Jack, everyone else does.
- You can call me Emma, itās easier that way.
- You can call me Sarah, but my full name is Sara.
- You can call me Chris if thatās more comfortable.
Why it works:
Itās inviting and offers others the freedom to address you how they feel most comfortable, which helps create a friendly atmosphere.
4. I go by [Name]
Explanation: This phrase is commonly used when you want to introduce a nickname or preferred version of your name.
Usage examples:
- I go by Jake, though my full name is Jacob.
- I go by Lily, but my formal name is Elizabeth.
- I go by Greg at work, but my full name is Gregory.
- I go by Emma when I’m with friends.
- I go by Mike in my personal life.
Why it works:
“I go by” introduces a more informal, familiar tone, especially when you want to emphasize a nickname or shortened version of your name.
5. Allow me to introduce myself. Iām [Name]
Explanation: A slightly more formal and polite way to introduce yourself, perfect for professional or official settings.
Usage examples:
- Allow me to introduce myself. Iām Samuel Anderson.
- Allow me to introduce myself. Iām Emily Smith, the new team leader.
- Allow me to introduce myself. Iām Michael Jones from accounting.
- Allow me to introduce myself. Iām Clara, your tour guide today.
- Allow me to introduce myself. Iām James Carter.
Why it works:
This phrase is polite and often used in professional contexts or when you want to come across as well-mannered and respectful.
Ready to find out more? Click here. Better Ways to Say āGoodā (With Examples)
6. People know me as [Name]
Explanation: This alternative introduces the way others commonly refer to you, which can be a fun, informal way to share your name.
Usage examples:
- People know me as Bob.
- People know me as Anna at the gym.
- People know me as Sam in my professional circle.
- People know me as Rachel, but my real name is Rebecca.
- People know me as John in my community.
Why it works:
It highlights how youāre recognized by others, giving your introduction a more casual and approachable feel.
7. The nameās [Name]
Explanation: A sleek and smooth alternative, often used for a little flair in both casual and professional settings.
Usage examples:
- The nameās Lucy.
- The nameās Mark, nice to meet you!
- The nameās Jack, and Iām your new neighbor.
- The nameās Clara, I work in HR.
- The nameās Chris, Iām here to help.
Why it works:
This phrase gives an air of confidence and can be especially useful in social or informal settings to show off your personality.
8. Iām called [Name]
Explanation: A simple introduction that can be used casually. It suggests familiarity and is often used in informal conversations.
Usage examples:
- Iām called Rachel.
- Iām called David by my friends.
- Iām called Emma, but my full name is Emily.
- Iām called Mike, but my formal name is Michael.
- Iām called Lucy, but everyone calls me Lou.
Why it works:
“Iām called” is straightforward and neutral, making it a good option for when you want to introduce yourself without too much formality.
9. Let me introduce myself. Iām [Name]
Explanation: A slightly more formal but still approachable way to introduce yourself, often used when you want to make a good first impression.
Usage examples:
- Let me introduce myself. Iām Sarah.
- Let me introduce myself. Iām George.
- Let me introduce myself. Iām Claire, and Iāll be your guide today.
- Let me introduce myself. Iām Chris from the marketing team.
- Let me introduce myself. Iām Michael, and Iām excited to be here.
Why it works:
This alternative is polite and formal, making it ideal for professional or first-time meetings where you want to sound respectful.
10. Hi, I answer to [Name]
Explanation: A casual and fun way to introduce yourself, emphasizing that you respond to a certain name, whether itās your full name or a nickname.
Usage examples:
- Hi, I answer to Mike.
- Hi, I answer to Greg.
- Hi, I answer to Sam, but my full name is Samuel.
- Hi, I answer to Jane.
- Hi, I answer to Clara, but feel free to call me Claire.
Why it works:
This phrase is lighthearted and approachable, showing a relaxed vibe and a willingness to connect with others on a personal level.
11. Please call me [Name]
Explanation: This polite phrase invites the listener to use your first name, offering a more friendly and informal approach to introductions.
Usage examples:
- Please call me Sarah, everyone does.
- Please call me Mike, itās easier.
- Please call me Emma, itās more casual that way.
- Please call me Greg, I prefer it.
- Please call me Lily, itās what my friends use.
Why it works:
Itās a polite, welcoming way to allow others to address you comfortably. It also shows your willingness to build rapport quickly.
12. My full name is [Name], but you can call me [affirming name]
Explanation: This introduction helps you provide your full name while offering a nickname or shorter version for ease and comfort.
Usage examples:
- My full name is Jonathan Smith, but you can call me Jon.
- My full name is Elizabeth Anne, but you can call me Liz.
- My full name is Alexander John, but you can call me Alex.
- My full name is Catherine McBride, but you can call me Cathy.
- My full name is Michael Patrick, but you can call me Mike.
Why it works:
This alternative is practical and respectful, especially if you prefer using a nickname while still acknowledging your formal name.
13. Iām known as [Name]
Explanation: This phrase suggests that you are commonly recognized by the name youāve mentioned, implying familiarity.
Usage examples:
- Iām known as John.
- Iām known as Rachel among my friends.
- Iām known as Tom in the office.
- Iām known as Emma in my social circles.
- Iām known as Mike when I travel.
Why it works:
āIām known asā adds a layer of social context, which is great if youāre trying to emphasize how people generally refer to you.
14. You might recognize me as [Name]
Explanation: This phrase works well if youāve been introduced before or have a notable presence, encouraging recognition.
Usage examples:
- You might recognize me as Sarah, I spoke with you last week.
- You might recognize me as George, I visited your office last month.
- You might recognize me as Lisa, from the conference.
- You might recognize me as Kevin, I was at the event yesterday.
- You might recognize me as Clara from the team.
Why it works:
This introduction implies that youāve met the person before or that youāre part of something memorable, creating an instant connection.
Other Ways to Say āFor Exampleā (Simple & Smart)
15. Letās get acquainted. Iām [Name]
Explanation: This phrase is an upbeat and friendly way to introduce yourself, offering an invitation to form a new relationship.
Usage examples:
- Letās get acquainted. Iām Kate.
- Letās get acquainted. Iām Liam, nice to meet you.
- Letās get acquainted. Iām Josh, Iām a new member here.
- Letās get acquainted. Iām Caroline, itās a pleasure.
- Letās get acquainted. Iām Brian, Iāll be your guide today.
Why it works:
This phrase is warm and welcoming, encouraging others to open up and start a friendly conversation.
16. I am [Name], pleased to meet you
Explanation: This formal yet friendly way to introduce yourself is polite and shows eagerness to meet the other person.
Usage examples:
- I am Sarah, pleased to meet you.
- I am Michael, pleased to meet you.
- I am James, itās a pleasure.
- I am Rachel, and itās great to finally meet you.
- I am Chris, Iāve heard a lot about you.
Why it works:
Itās formal but warm, and works well in professional settings or situations where respect is important.
17. Hereās [Name], nice to meet you
Explanation: This is a direct but friendly way to introduce yourself, typically in informal or semi-formal situations.
Usage examples:
- Hereās David, nice to meet you!
- Hereās Claire, Iām excited to be here.
- Hereās Tom, I work in sales.
- Hereās Emily, letās get to know each other.
- Hereās Jack, Iām your new assistant.
Why it works:
Itās informal but still polite, making it a good choice when meeting people in social situations.
18. You may call me [Name]
Explanation: This is a polite and somewhat formal way to offer someone the opportunity to address you by your affirming name.
Usage examples:
- You may call me John.
- You may call me Sarah, itās easier.
- You may call me Greg, everyone else does.
- You may call me Lisa, as my friends do.
- You may call me James if itās simpler.
Why it works:
Itās courteous and offers an alternative to formal titles while keeping the introduction professional.
19. I go by [Name], but my real name is [Full Name]
Explanation: This alternative allows you to mention your formal name while presenting a commonly used name.
Usage examples:
- I go by Mike, but my real name is Michael.
- I go by Tim, but my real name is Timothy.
- I go by Chris, but my real name is Christopher.
- I go by Sam, but my full name is Samuel.
- I go by Max, but my full name is Maximilian.
Why it works:
This gives a casual introduction but still acknowledges your formal name, adding flexibility in how people address you.
20. Iām [Name], and I prefer to be called [affirming name]
Explanation: This is a good option if you prefer a specific version of your name thatās more comfortable or familiar.
Usage examples:
- Iām George, and I prefer to be called Geo.
- Iām Samantha, and I prefer to be called Sam.
- Iām Rachel, and I prefer to be called Rae.
- Iām Michael, and I prefer to be called Mike.
- Iām Elizabeth, and I prefer to be called Lizzy.
Why it works:
It highlights your preference for a particular name and invites others to respect that preference.
Other ways to say āNot Onlyā to Elevate Your LanguageĀ
21. Just call me [Name]
Explanation: A relaxed and informal way to let someone know how to address you without much ceremony.
Usage examples:
- Just call me Jenny.
- Just call me Dave, everyone does.
- Just call me Tim, itās easier.
- Just call me Sarah, no need for anything formal.
- Just call me Amy, thatās what my friends use.
Why it works:
This option is informal and suggests comfort and approachability, making it ideal for friends and acquaintances.
22. I am known as [Name]
Explanation: Similar to āIām known as,ā but slightly more formal.
Usage examples:
- I am known as James in my field.
- I am known as Claire by my colleagues.
- I am known as David in my community.
- I am known as Mike in my social group.
- I am known as Emily in the office.
Why it works:
This option introduces a professional or contextual element and works well in more structured settings.
23. I answer to [Name]
Explanation: This phrase is often used in a casual or playful setting, showing that you respond to a name without necessarily focusing on formality.
Usage examples:
- I answer to Anna.
- I answer to Greg, but feel free to call me anything.
- I answer to Sam, itās what everyone calls me.
- I answer to Emma, itās easier than my full name.
- I answer to Mike when Iām with my friends.
Why it works:
“I answer to” is a relaxed and informal way to introduce yourself, making it suitable for casual situations.
24. Call me [Name]
Explanation: A straightforward and casual way to invite someone to address you by your affirming name.
Usage examples:
- Call me Rachel.
- Call me Max, itās short and simple.
- Call me Sarah, thatās what most people use.
- Call me Clara, but my full name is Clarissa.
- Call me Dave, thatās the name I go by.
Why it works:
Itās quick and to the point, ideal for informal settings or when you want to keep things simple.
25. Allow me to present myself. Iām [Name]
Explanation: A formal and professional way to introduce yourself, often used in business or more serious settings.
Usage examples:
- Allow me to present myself. Iām William Lee.
- Allow me to present myself. Iām Catherine Moore.
- Allow me to present myself. Iām Thomas Jacobs.
- Allow me to present myself. Iām Natalie Williams.
- Allow me to present myself. Iām Matthew Evans.
Why it works:
This phrase is particularly useful for formal introductions in professional settings, where you want to project a sense of professionalism and respect.
Conclusion
With these 25 creative alternatives to “my name is,” you now have a wide range of options to introduce yourself in various contexts. Whether you want to keep it casual, formal, or somewhere in between, these alternatives will help you express yourself more confidently, naturally, and with more personality. Try using these in your next introduction, and see how it enhances your communication!

I’m Leo Knox, the wordplay wizard behind WordsTwists.com where I turn everyday meanings into funny, clever, and creative twists. If you’re tired of saying things the boring way, Iāve got a better (and funnier) one for you!