30+ Ways To Know How To Introduce Yourself In Chinese For Any Occasion

The ability to present yourself effectively forms the bedrock of successful communication, making it an indispensable tool in your linguistic arsenal.

If the question, 'How to introduce yourself in Chinese,' has been on your mind, you have arrived at the right place.

This comprehensive guide is designed to help you grasp the basics and understand the subtle nuances that make self-introduction in Chinese a fascinating skill to learn and master.

Whether you're starting with 'nǐ hǎo' (你好) or are an advanced learner, this guide will provide invaluable insights that will have you impress your new Chinese friends. With consistent practice, patience, and this guide, you will soon be able to introduce yourself in Chinese easily and confidently.

Without further ado, let's get started!

The script: how to introduce yourself in Chinese

Step 1. Say a Chinese greeting

Start any conversation with a friendly greeting. A common and versatile way to say "hello" in Chinese is 你好 (Nǐ hǎo), which translates to "you're good." It's equivalent to the English "hi" or "hello."

We actually have a whole article about greetings in Chinese, so take a look for a more in-depth conversation: Chinese Greetings—The Complete Guide to Greeting Anyone at Any Time in Chinese.

Here’s a common Chinese introduction script to say hi, your name, and where you’re from

Basic Chinese introduction script | Harbin Mandarin

Step 2. Say your name in Chinese

When asked, "What's your name?" in Chinese, you can reply with "我叫..." (Wǒ jiào ...) followed by your name. For example, "我叫威廉" (Wǒ jiào Wēi lián) means "My name is William."

For a more formal introduction, use "我的名字叫..." (Wǒ de míngzi jiào ...) before stating your name.

Alternatively, you can say, "我是..." (Wǒ shì ...) followed by your name, which translates to "I am ..." and is an easier way to introduce yourself.

Then to ask for the other person's name, you can use "你呢？" (nǐ ne) for informal situations or “您呢？” (nín ne) for formal situations, both meaning "and you?"

Step 3. Express pleasure to meet them

After exchanging names, express your delight in meeting the person by saying "很高兴认识你" (Hěn gāoxìng rènshi nǐ), which means "Nice to meet you." 

For a more formal setting, use "很高兴认识您" (Hěn gāoxìng rènshi nín).

Remember to smile, maintain eye contact, and offer a firm handshake to show your friendliness and respect.

10 unique phrases to introduce yourself in Chinese

Mastering the art of 'how to introduce yourself in Chinese' is more than merely uttering your name or age. It's an integral step in Chinese culture as it's your first step to fostering relationships and earning mutual respect.

Next, let's move on to more complete ways that will help you complete a self-introduction.

In a general context, let's dive into 10 handy sentences that can equip you to introduce yourself in Chinese with finesse:

1. "Nǐ hǎo, wǒ de míngzi shì..." (你好，我的名字是...)

Start with the basic greeting "nǐ hǎo" (你好), which means "hello." Then follow it up with "wǒ de míngzi shì" (我的名字是), meaning "my name is."

For example, "Nǐ hǎo, wǒ de míngzi shì Tom" translates to "Hello, my name is Tom."

2. "Wǒ lái zì..." (我来自...)

When you want to share where you're from, use "wǒ lái zì" (我来自) followed by your hometown or country.

If you are from America, you can say, "Wǒ lái zì Měiguó" (我来自美国).

3. "Wǒ shì yì míng..." (我是一名...)

This phrase is perfect for stating your profession.

For instance, "Wǒ shì yì míng yīshēng" (我是一名医生) translates to "I am a doctor."

4. "Wǒ zài...xuéxí" (我在...学习)

To express where you're studying, use the phrase "wǒ zài...xuéxí" (我在...学习).

So if you're studying at Beijing University, you'd say, "Wǒ zài Běijīng dàxué xuéxí" (我在北京大学学习).

5. "Wǒ de àihào shì..." (我的爱好是...)

This phrase is to share your hobbies. Say, "wǒ de àihào shì" (我的爱好是), followed by your hobby.

For example, "Wǒ de àihào shì tīng yīnyuè" (我的爱好是听音乐) means "My hobby is listening to music."

6. "Wǒ xìng..." (我姓...)

In Chinese, the family name or surname comes first, which is why the phrase "wǒ xìng" (我姓), followed by your surname, is a crucial part of introductions.

For instance, "Wǒ xìng Li" (我姓李) translates to "My surname is Li."

7. "Wǒ zài...gōngzuò" (我在...工作)

This phrase allows you to share your work location. It can also be used to express the company that you are working at.

For example, "Wǒ zài Yīngguó gōngzuò" (我在英国工作) means "I work in England."

8. "Wǒ shì...suì" (我是...岁)

To share your age, use "Wǒ shì...suì" (我是...岁) and any Chinese numbers.

So if you're 25, you'd say, "Wǒ shì 25 suì" (我是25岁).

9. "Wǒ shì..." (我是...)

"Wǒ shì" (我是) can also be used to specify your gender. "Wǒ shì nǚshēng" (我是女生) means "I am a female."

10. "Wǒ shì...rén" (我是...人)

Indicate your nationality using this phrase.

For example, "Wǒ shì zhōngguó rén" (我是中国人) means "I am a Chinese person."

General notes on Chinese introductions

Now that you have the basic information on how to introduce yourself in Chinese, it's crucial to understand cultural contexts.

a. Age plays an information rule.

In contrast to many Western cultures, it's not uncommon for someone to ask about your age early in a conversation. 

In Chinese society, age plays a pivotal role in defining the hierarchical structure of relationships, influencing the respect one should show to another. Consequently, such questions are optional but necessary for establishing rapport and respect.

b. Be patient and polite.

Patience and politeness are integral aspects of introducing yourself in Chinese.

Building a conversation requires time, so it's essential to exercise patience when trying to make a good impression. On the other hand, politeness can be reflected in how you listen attentively, show respect towards the other person's opinions, and express gratitude for their time and attention.

c. Be aware of any cultural sensitivity and insights.

Developing a basic understanding of Chinese culture will significantly improve your communication with Chinese friends. 

This understanding can range from knowing when to bow or shake hands, understanding how to address someone by their correct title, to showing appreciation for Chinese traditions and history.

d. Know the non-verbal cues.

Body language is another crucial factor to consider. Maintaining eye contact while speaking, giving affirmative nods to show that you are listening, and having a relaxed yet respectful posture can positively influence your interactions.

13 phrases to introduce yourself for a Chinese date

If you are preparing for a date and you want to introduce yourself in Chinese, here are 13 sentences to help you impress:

1. "Nǐ hǎo, hěn gāoxìng rènshí nǐ" (你好，很高兴认识你)

When introducing yourself on a date, this phrase adds a bit of charm to your greeting.

For example, "Nǐ hǎo, hěn gāoxìng rènshí nǐ" (你好，很高兴认识你) translates to "Hello, nice to meet you."

2. "Wǒ ài..., nǐ ne?" (我爱...，你呢？)

This phrase is useful when you want to share your likes and ask your date about their preferences.

"Wǒ ài pǔtáojiǔ, nǐ ne?" (我爱葡萄酒，你呢？) translates to "I love wine, and you?"

3. "Wǒ lái zì..., nǐ ne?" (我来自...，你呢？)

Talking about where you come from can be a great conversation starter. "Wǒ lái zì Fǎguó, nǐ ne?" (我来自法国，你呢？) means "I come from France, and you?"

4. "Wǒ xiǎng gēn nǐ yìqǐ cānguān zhège bówùguǎn" (我想跟你一起参观这个博物馆)

If you're planning to visit a museum with your date, you can say, "Wǒ xiǎng gēn nǐ yìqǐ cānguān zhège bówùguǎn" (我想跟你一起参观这个博物馆), which means "I would like to visit this museum with you."

5. "Nǐ xǐhuān kàn diànyǐng ma?" (你喜欢看电影吗?)

This phrase is great for asking your date if they enjoy watching movies.

"Nǐ xǐhuān kàn diànyǐng ma?" (你喜欢看电影吗?) means "Do you like watching movies?"

6. "Nǐ xǐhuān tīng shénme yīnyuè?" (你喜欢听什么音乐?)

Music can be a great conversation starter. Use this phrase to ask your date what kind of music they like. It means, "What kind of music do you like?"

7. "Wǒ kěyǐ qǐng nǐ hē yì bēi kāfēi ma?" (我可以请你喝一杯咖啡吗?)

This phrase is perfect for inviting your date for a cup of coffee.

"Wǒ kěyǐ qǐng nǐ hē yì bēi kāfēi ma?" (我可以请你喝一杯咖啡吗?) translates to "May I invite you for a cup of coffee?"

8. "Wǒ kěyǐ qǐng nǐ wǎncān ma?" (我可以请你晚餐吗?)

This phrase is ideal for asking your date to dinner. It translates to "May I invite you for dinner?"

9. "Nǐ yǒu shénme tèbié de àihào?" (你有什么特别的爱好?)

Hobbies can tell a lot about a person. Use this phrase to ask about your date's unique hobbies. It means, "What special hobbies do you have?"

10. "Nǐ xǐhuān kàn shénme shū?" (你喜欢看什么书?)

This phrase can be useful if you are interested in your date's reading preferences. It translates to "What kind of books do you like?"

11. "Nǐ jiào shénme míngzi?" (你叫什么名字?)

After introducing your name, you can also ask the other party for their name.

This phrase translates to "What is your name?"

12. "Nǐ zhù zài nǎli?" (你住在哪里?)

To know where someone is staying, you can ask them this phrase: "Nǐ zhù zài nǎli?" (你住在哪里?) which roughly translates to "Where do you stay?" 

If you ask this question through online dating platforms, the other person will likely reply with the city they stay in.

13. "Nǐ zuò shénme gōngzuò?" (你做什么工作?)

Asking a potential partner's profession is also common during the first date.

This sentence "你做什么工作?" translates to "What is your profession?"

Notes on Chinese dating etiquette

In the context of a date, understanding Chinese dating etiquette is vital. Men are often expected to take the lead in asking questions, planning the date, and paying the bill.

However, these expectations can vary based on personal preferences and modern dating norms. Politeness, honesty, and modesty are universally valued in the Chinese dating scene.

Avoid controversial topics, respect their customs and family, and show genuine interest in getting to know them.

a. Taking initiative

Men are often expected to take the lead in various aspects of the date. This action could involve asking questions to keep the conversation flowing, planning the date, and even paying the bill. However, these traditional expectations are not hard and fast rules and can vary based on personal preferences and modern dating norms.

b. Respect their customs and family:

Chinese culture holds family values in high regard. Therefore, it's essential to be respectful of their customs and family. This action could mean showing interest when they speak about their family or understanding their participation in traditional family gatherings and celebrations.

c. Show genuine interest:

Finally, show genuine interest in getting to know them. This action could involve asking about their hobbies using phrases like "Nǐ xǐhuān zuò shénme" (你喜欢做什么?), meaning "What do you like to do?" or expressing curiosity about their preferences in music, food, or books.

9 professional phrases to introduce yourself in Chinese in a business setting

Understanding how to introduce yourself in Chinese in a business environment is crucial. Here are 10 business phrases to help introduce yourself and network:

1. "Nǐn hǎo, wǒ de míngzi shì..." (您好，我的名字是...)

Politeness is paramount in a professional setting. Use the formal "nǐn hǎo" (您好), meaning "hello," instead of the more casual "nǐ hǎo."

For example, "Nǐn hǎo, wǒ de míngzi shì James" (您好，我的名字是James) translates to "Hello, my name is James."

2. "Wǒ shì...gōngsī de..." (我是...公司的...)

It's often important to mention your company affiliation and role within it.

So, "Wǒ shì Apple gōngsī de CEO" (我是Apple公司的CEO) translates to "I am the CEO of Apple."

3. "Wǒ zài...fēn gōngsī gōngzuò" (我在...分公司工作)

To specify your work location, use "Wǒ zài...fēn gōngsī gōngzuò" (我在...分公司工作).

For example, "Wǒ zài Zhōngguó fēn gōngsī gōngzuò" (我在中国分公司工作) means "I work in the China branch."

4. "Wǒ de gōngsī wèiyú..." (我的公司位于...)

To express the location of your company, use "Wǒ de gōngsī wèiyú..." (我的公司位于...).

For example, "Wǒ de gōngsī wèiyú Shànghǎi" (我的公司位于上海) means "My company is located in Shanghai."

5. "Wǒmén gōngsī zhuānyè yú..." (我们公司专业于...)

To express your company's area of expertise, use "Wǒmén gōngsī zhuānyè yú..." (我们公司专业于...).

For example, "Wǒmén gōngsī zhuānyè yú jìsuànjī kēxué" (我们公司专业于计算机科学) means "Our company specializes in computer science."

6. "Wǒmén gōngsī de zhǔyào chǎnpǐn shì..." (我们公司的主要产品是...)

When talking about your company's main product, use "Wǒmén gōngsī de zhǔyào chǎnpǐn shì..." (我们公司的主要产品是...).

For instance, "Wǒmen gōngsī de zhǔyào chǎnpǐn shì diànnǎo" (我们公司的主要产品是电脑) translates to "Our company's main product is computers."

7. "Wǒ de zhuānyè shì..." (我的专业是...)

When discussing your field of expertise, use "Wǒ de zhuānyè shì..." (我的专业是...).

For instance, "Wǒ de zhuānyè shì jìsuànjī kēxué" (我的专业是计算机科学) means "My specialty is computer science."

8. "Wǒ de yèwù fànchóu bāokuò..." (我的业务范畴包括...)

This phrase allows you to detail the scope of your work.

"Wǒ de yèwù fànchóu bāokuò..." (我的业务范畴包括...) translates to "My business scope includes..."

9. "Wǒ yǐqián gōngzuò zài..." (我以前工作在...)

This phrase allows you to discuss your past work experience.

It translates to "I used to work at..."

5 Chinese business etiquette notes

Navigating Chinese business introductions requires a blend of cultural knowledge, linguistic ability, and an understanding of professional etiquette.

Here are some critical points to consider while making business introductions:

a. Use formal language:

In Chinese business culture, formal language is often used to show respect. This action includes using formal versions of sentences, professional titles, and polite expressions.

Remember, the phrase "wǒ shì" (我是), meaning "I am," is usually followed by your professional title and full name.

b. Exchange of business cards:

Business cards are highly valued in China, and their exchange is a significant part of the introduction process. When receiving a business card, use both hands to show respect. Please take a moment to read it carefully before placing it in a cardholder or a safe place.

c. Respect the hierarchy:

Like the general cultural norm, age, and hierarchical position significantly influence interactions in Chinese business culture. Make sure to greet the senior-most person first and always show due respect to individuals with higher positions.

d. Achieve brevity and clarity:

While making self-introductions in business contexts, be concise and clear. Chinese business professionals appreciate brevity and directness. Hence, your introduction could include your name, your role, and the organization you represent, followed by a brief overview of your business goals.

e. Remember the importance of titles:

Chinese people often prefer being addressed by their titles instead of their first names, particularly in professional settings. Therefore, remember to use their correct titles, such as "lǎoshī" (老师) for a teacher or "zhǔrèn" (主任) for a director.

BONUS: Chinese vocabulary list related to introductions

No.	Chinese Hanzi	Pinyin	English meaning
1	你好，我的名字是...	Nǐ hǎo, wǒ de míngzi shì...	My name is…
2	我来自...	Wǒ lái zì...	I come from…
3	我是一名...	Wǒ shì yì míng..	My profession is…
4	我在...学习	Wǒ zài...xuéxí	I am studying at…
5	我的爱好是...	Wǒ de àihào shì...	My hobby is…
6	我姓...	Wǒ xìng...	My surname is…
7	我在...工作	Wǒ zài...gōngzuò	I work in…
8	我是...岁	Wǒ shì...suì	I am… years old
9	我是...	Wǒ shì...	I am…
10	我是...人	Wǒ shì...rén	I am… person
11	你好，很高兴认识你	Nǐ hǎo, hěn gāoxìng rènshí nǐ	Hello, nice to meet you.
12	我爱...，你呢？	Wǒ ài..., nǐ ne?	I love…, and you?
13	我来自...，你呢？	Wǒ lái zì..., nǐ ne?	I come from…, and you?
14	我想跟你一起参观这个博物馆	Wǒ xiǎng gēn nǐ yìqǐ cānguān zhège bówùguǎn	I would like to visit this museum with you
15	你喜欢看电影吗?	Nǐ xǐhuān kàn diànyǐng ma?	Do you like watching movies?
16	你喜欢听什么音乐?	Nǐ xǐhuān tīng shénme yīnyuè?	What kind of music do you like?
17	我可以请你喝一杯咖啡吗?	Wǒ kěyǐ qǐng nǐ hē yì bēi kāfēi ma?	May I invite you for a cup of coffee?
18	我可以请你晚餐吗?	Wǒ kěyǐ qǐng nǐ wǎncān ma?	May I invite you for dinner?
19	你有什么特别的爱好?	Nǐ yǒu shénme tèbié de àihào?	What hobbies do you have?
20	你喜欢看什么书?	Nǐ xǐhuān kàn shénme shū?	What kind of books do you like?
21	你叫什么名字?	Nǐ jiào shénme míngzi?	What is your name?
22	你住在哪里?	Nǐ zhù zài nǎli?	Where do you stay?
23	你做什么工作?	Nǐ zuò shénme gōngzuò?	What is your profession?
24	您好，我的名字是...	Nǐn hǎo, wǒ de míngzi shì…	Hi, my name is…
25	我是...公司的...	Wǒ shì...gōngsī de...	I am the… of… company
26	我在...分公司工作	Wǒ zài...fēn gōngsī gōngzuò	I work in the… branch
27	我的公司位于...	Wǒ de gōngsī wèiyú...	My company is located in…
28	我们公司专业于...	Wǒmén gōngsī zhuānyè yú...	Our company specializes in…
29	我们公司的主要产品是...	Wǒmen gōngsī de zhǔyào chǎnpǐn shì...	Our company's main product is…
30	我的专业是...	Wǒ de zhuānyè shì...	My specialty is…
31	我的业务范畴包括...	Wǒ de yèwù fànchóu bāokuò...	My business scope includes..
32	我以前工作在...	Wǒ yǐqián gōngzuò zài...	I used to work at...

General Chinese introductions etiquette for first impressions

Understanding Chinese culture can help when you introduce yourself in Chinese. Chinese people heavily value respect and formality during first-time introductions, which are usually accompanied by a handshake or, occasionally, a slight bow.

So, refrain from making prolonged eye contact as it might be perceived as challenging or disrespectful.

a. Emphasize respect

Expressing respect toward the other person is vital when introducing yourself in Chinese. This action can be done using polite phrases such as "qǐngwèn" (请问), which translates to "May I ask."

b. Practice humility

In Chinese culture, humility is a prized trait. When introducing yourself, remember to downplay your achievements. Use phrases such as "wǒ hái zài xuéxí" (我还在学习), meaning "I am still learning," to express modesty.

c. Give compliments

Chinese culture encourages giving compliments during introductions. However, make sure your compliments are sincere and appropriately timed.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is the common response after a self-introduction?

Typically, after someone introduces themselves, the other person responds with "hěn gāoxìng rènshí nǐ" (很高兴认识你), which translates to "nice to meet you."

Is it common to mention your age during introductions in China?

In casual settings, it might be common, especially among young people. However, mentioning age is only typical if relevant in a professional or formal business setting.

Should I bow when introducing myself in China?

In China, a slight nod or bow is common when greeting someone, especially in a formal setting. However, a handshake is also acceptable, especially in business settings.

How should I introduce myself to a group in China?

When introducing yourself to a group in China, start by greeting everyone and then introduce yourself. Remember to maintain eye contact with everyone as you speak.

For example, "Dàjiā hǎo, wǒ de míngzi shì..." (大家好，我的名字是...), which translates to "Hello everyone, my name is..."

Should I use my English name or Chinese name when introducing myself?

That depends on the situation. If you introduce yourself to Chinese individuals who may have difficulty pronouncing foreign names, you should use a Chinese name.

However, using your English name with Chinese pronunciation is also acceptable.

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Wrapping it up

Congratulations! Whether it's to meet new friends, go on a date, or for professional networking, knowing how to introduce yourself in Chinese is an important step to making connections and building up how to speak Chinese with confidence.

Practice these phrases to impress your colleagues and impress them with your Chinese language skills.

Each step in learning Chinese brings you closer to understanding a fascinating culture, making new Chinese friends, and gaining a valuable skill that opens up a world of opportunities.

Jing You is a Chinese native who grew up in the Fujian province and soaked in the Chinese culture while living with her grandparents. She later moved to Singapore to pursue further education. However, she has always been passionate about the Mandarin language despite being in an environment that speaks English predominantly. She was involved in multiple Mandarin and Chinese culture programmes in schools, and brought this passion forward by tutoring elementary school students Mandarin in her adulthood.