How do you say "To be called; my name is" in Japanese?

"To be called; my name is" in Japanese is "申します". This phrase is commonly used in Japan.

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How to Say ‘To be called; my name is’ in Japanese

Q: What does "申します" mean in English?

"申します" means "To be called; my name is" in English. Usage tip: [申します] is a humble, polite way to say [I am called] or [my name is], used instead of plain [言います] in formal self-introductions. At networking events, [^FIRST^ ^LAST^ と申します] sounds natural and professional.

申します

moushi masu

[moh-shee mahss]

💬 Usage Tip: [申します] is a humble, polite way to say [I am called] or [my name is], used instead of plain [言います] in formal self-introductions. At networking events, [^FIRST^ ^LAST^ と申します] sounds natural and professional.

🇯🇵 In Japan: This is standard-polite for first meetings in business settings. It sounds more appropriate than casual [です] introductions when you're meeting recruiters, company staff, or new contacts.

Phrase Breakdown

申し

moushi

[moh-shee]

say; be called (humble)

A humble, polite verb used in formal self-introductions, especially in business settings.

Example

受付で佐藤と申し、会場に入りました。

At reception, I humbly said I am Sato and entered the venue.

ます

masu

[mahss]

polite verb ending

A standard polite ending attached to verbs to make the sentence formal and appropriate for business situations.

Example

初対面なので、丁寧にますを使って話しました。

Since it was a first meeting, I spoke politely using the formal verb ending.

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