What is your name?

Meaning: This is a question asking someone to tell you their name. It's like saying, Can you tell me your name?

Choice of Words: What is used to ask a question about something. Is is a verb that describes a state of being or existence. Your refers to the person being asked the question. Name refers to the word or words that identify a person or thing. When you put them together, "What is your name?" is a question asking someone to provide their name.

Alternative Expressions

Can you tell me your name?

Meaning: This means to ask someone to tell you their name. It's like saying, Would you be able to tell me what your name is?

Choice of Words: Can is a modal verb that is used to ask permission or to express ability. You is a pronoun that is used to refer to the person or people that are being spoken to. Tell is a verb that means to speak or write something in order to give information. Me is a pronoun that is used to refer to the person who is speaking. Your is a possessive adjective that shows that something belongs to someone. Name is a noun that refers to the word or phrase that is used to identify a person, place, or thing. When you put them together, "Can you tell me your name?" is a polite question that asks someone to provide their name.

What should I call you?

Meaning: This means to ask someone what name you should use to address them. It's like saying, What name would you like me to use when I speak to you?

Choice of Words: What is a question word that is used to ask for information. Should is a modal verb that is used to express advice or obligation. I is a pronoun that is used to refer to the person who is speaking. Call is a verb that means to speak to someone or to refer to someone by a particular name. You is a pronoun that is used to refer to the person or people that are being spoken to. When you put them together, "What should I call you?" is a question that asks someone what name they would like to be called.

Related Expressions