Ukrainian Introductions
Knowing how to introduce yourself in Ukrainian (українська мова) is essential if you’re traveling through Ukraine, connecting with Ukrainian communities abroad, or simply eager to learn this melodic language. In this lesson, we’ll explore basic ways to state your name and ask for someone else’s—in both informal and formal contexts—so you can jump into conversations confidently.
Like many Slavic languages, Ukrainian distinguishes between a more casual form for friends, family, or peers, and a respectful form for strangers, older people, or those in professional settings.
- Informal: Як тебе звати? → What’s your name? (literally “How to call you?”)
- Formal: Як Вас звати? → What’s your name? (polite/plural form)
Quick Tip
Use ти (informal “you”) when speaking to friends or people your own age. Use Ви (formal or plural “you”) for courtesy. For more on Ukrainian courtesy forms, see our Ukrainian greetings lesson.
Informal and Formal Introductions
Below are short examples showcasing how you might introduce yourself in both casual and polite settings:
Informal Introduction:
A: Привіт, я Oksana, як тебе звати? → Hi, I’m Oksana, what’s your name?
B: Мене звати Andriy, приємно познайомитись. А ти? → My name’s Andriy, nice to meet you. And you?
Formal Introduction:
A: Добрий день, як Вас звати? → Good day, what’s your name?
B: Добрий день! Мене звати Olha Shevchenko, а Вас? → Good day! My name is Olha Shevchenko, and yours?
A: Я Taras Ivanenko. → I’m Taras Ivanenko.
B: Приємно. → Nice to meet you.
A: Взаємно. → Likewise.
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Key Phrases for Ukrainian Introductions
Як тебе звати? → What’s your name? (informal)
Як Вас звати? → What’s your name? (formal)
Мене звати… → My name is… (literally “They call me…”)
Я… → I am…
Приємно познайомитися! (познайомитись) → Nice to meet you.
Взаємно → Likewise (lit. “mutually”).
Ім’я → name (first name)
Прізвище → surname
By mastering these basic introduction phrases, you’ll feel more at ease meeting new people in Ukrainian. Whether in a friendly coffee-shop chat or a formal work setting, these phrases pave the way for smoother, more genuine interactions. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll make a great first impression with any Ukrainian speaker!
Language guide
Explore grammar and learning tips in our Ukrainian language guide.
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Pronunciation & Writing
Master the Ukrainian alphabet! Learn the 33 letters, their pronunciation, and unique characters like ґ, ї, and щ.
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Conversation Basics
Learn how to easily say “How are you?” in Ukrainian, plus useful responses for both formal and informal situations.
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Conversation Basics
Master essential Ukrainian greetings! Learn how to say hello, good evening, and more for everyday conversations.
