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PhrasesIntroducing YourselfMi chiamo Luca.
A1

Mi chiamo Luca.

My name is Luca.

Pronunciation

'Mi chiamo' = mee KYA-mo. The 'ch' before 'i' is always a hard 'k' sound in Italian.

When to use it

The first and most universal phrase for stating your name. Use in any context — formal, informal, or neutral. It is always the correct opener when introducing yourself for the first time.

What it means

'Chiamarsi' is a reflexive verb meaning 'to be called.' 'Mi chiamo' = 'I call myself.' This is the standard A1 self-introduction and is used far more frequently than 'sono' + name in everyday Italian speech.

Variations

Il mio nome è Luca.

My name is Luca.

More formal and less common in speech — often found in written introductions.

Sono Luca.

I'm Luca.

Very short and casual — common among young people or in very informal settings.

Mi presento: mi chiamo Luca.

Allow me to introduce myself: my name is Luca.

Adds a formal signal that an introduction is coming — good for speeches or meetings.

Mini Dialogue

— Buongiorno a tutti. Mi chiamo Luca Ferretti e sono il nuovo direttore. — Benvenuto, signor Ferretti! — Grazie. Sono felice di essere qui.

— Good morning everyone. My name is Luca Ferretti and I am the new director. — Welcome, Mr Ferretti! — Thank you. I am happy to be here.

Cultural Note

In formal Italian introductions, it is common to state both first name and surname. In casual settings, first name alone is standard and giving your surname immediately can feel stiff.