The most common and direct translation of "What is your name?" in Portuguese is Qual é o seu nome?
Understanding "Qual é o seu nome?"
This phrase is widely used across all Portuguese-speaking countries and is a fundamental part of initial introductions. Let's break down its components:
Qual: This translates to "What" or "Which one." In this context, it asks for specific information – your name.é: This is the third-person singular form of the verb "ser" (to be), meaning "is."o seu: This is the possessive pronoun meaning "your." While generally considered polite and versatile, it can lean slightly towards a more formal tone compared to other options, especially in Brazil. In Portugal, it's very common.nome: This simply means "name."
Other Common Ways to Ask "What's Your Name?"
While "Qual é o seu nome?" is widely understood, Portuguese offers several other common ways to ask someone's name, often varying by formality, region, or personal preference.
Variations and Usage
| Portuguese Phrase | Literal Translation | Common Usage & Nuance |
|---|---|---|
| Qual é o seu nome? | What is your name? | Very common, polite, and generally applicable. Uses the formal/neutral "seu." |
| Como você se chama? | How do you call yourself? | Extremely common, especially in Brazil. Often perceived as slightly more informal and friendly than "Qual é o seu nome?". |
| Qual é o teu nome? | What is your name? | Informal. Uses the informal "teu." More common in Portugal or in very informal contexts in Brazil (e.g., with friends). |
| Como te chamas? | How do you call yourself? | Informal. Predominantly used in Portugal. Less common in Brazil. |
Choosing the Right Phrase
- For general situations, especially when meeting someone for the first time or in a professional setting, Qual é o seu nome? or Como você se chama? are safe and appropriate choices in Brazil.
- In Portugal, Qual é o seu nome? is standard, and Como te chamas? is common for informal interactions.
- The choice between
você(Brazilian Portuguese) andtu(European Portuguese, or informal Brazilian Portuguese) often dictates the use ofseu/suaversusteu/tuaand verb conjugations.
How to Respond
Once someone asks for your name, here are the common ways to respond in Portuguese:
- Meu nome é [Your Name].
- Meaning: My name is [Your Name].
- Example: Meu nome é Maria. (My name is Maria.)
- Eu sou [Your Name].
- Meaning: I am [Your Name].
- Example: Eu sou João. (I am João.)
- Me chamo [Your Name].
- Meaning: I call myself [Your Name].
- Example: Me chamo Ana. (I call myself Ana.)
You can also add a polite closing, such as Prazer! (Nice to meet you!) or Muito prazer! (Very nice to meet you!).
