What is your name? My name is Marco.
KYA-mi: the 'chi' makes a 'ki' sound. 'Chiami' has the stress on 'CHIA'. Say it as one smooth phrase.
This is the most fundamental Italian introduction phrase. Use 'come ti chiami?' with anyone of similar age or younger. It is completely natural in school, at parties, during travel, and in any casual first meeting.
'Chiamarsi' is a reflexive verb meaning 'to be called'. The question 'come ti chiami?' literally means 'how do you call yourself?' and the answer 'mi chiamo Marco' means 'I call myself Marco'. The structure 'io mi chiamo' emphasises your own name being offered in return.
Qual è il tuo nome?
What is your name?
Slightly more formal, less common in speech
Come si chiama? (formal)
What is your name? (formal)
Use 'Lei' form with strangers, elders, or in professional settings
Posso sapere il tuo nome?
May I know your name?
Slightly old-fashioned but charming phrasing
Italians typically introduce themselves with their first name ('nome') only in casual settings. In formal or professional contexts, they give both first and family name. Nicknames ('soprannomi') are widely used among friends — Italians often have affectionate shortened names from childhood that persist throughout life.