¿Cómo se llama?

When to use

This question is used during introductions when you need to find out someone's name. It is appropriate for most situations, especially when you want to maintain a polite distance or are speaking to someone older or in a position of authority.

Tu vs. Usted

This phrase uses the formal 'usted' form. The verb 'llama' is conjugated for 'él/ella/usted'. Using 'tú' would sound like '¿Cómo te llamas?', which is more informal.

How it works

This is an interrogative form of the reflexive verb 'llamarse' (to be called). 'Se' is the reflexive pronoun for 'usted', and 'llama' is the third-person singular present indicative conjugation.

• se llama: is called (reflexive verb for usted)

Natural replies

A typical response would be 'Me llamo [Name].' (My name is [Name].)

Notes

Basic name question for introductions. Neutral everyday wording.