Basic Introductions: How to Introduce Yourself in Finnish
Explore suomenkieliset esittelyt (introductions in Finnish) for starting conversations.
When learning a new language, knowing how to introduce yourself is one of the most useful skills. In Finnish, introductions are straightforward and simple. Here’s how to confidently tell someone your name, where you’re from, and a bit about yourself in Finnish.
The Basics: Your Name
Start with these simple sentences to introduce yourself:
Minä olen [your name]. – “I am [your name].”
Example: Minä olen Anna. – "I am Anna."
Mun nimi on [your name]. – “My name is [your name].” (Spoken Finnish, more casual)
Example: Mun nimi on Mika. – "My name is Mika."
Where Are You From?
To tell someone where you’re from, use the following phrases:
Minä olen kotoisin [place]. – “I am from [place].”
Example: Minä olen kotoisin Suomesta. – “I am from Finland.”Minä asun [place]. – “I live in [place].”
Example: Minä asun Helsingissä. – “I live in Helsinki.”
Adding a Little More About Yourself
Here’s how to share more information about your interests or background:
Minä opiskelen suomea. – “I am studying Finnish.”
Minä olen opiskelija. – “I am a student.”
Minä työskentelen [field or job]. – “I work in [field or job].”
Example: Minä työskentelen IT-alalla. – “I work in IT.”Minä harrastan [hobby]. – “I enjoy [hobby].”
Example: Minä harrastan lukemista. – “I enjoy reading.”
How to Respond Politely
When someone introduces themselves to you, here’s how to reply:
Hauska tutustua! – “Nice to meet you!”
Sama täällä. – “Same here.”
Mitä kuuluu? – “How are you?”
Spoken Finnish: Casual Introductions
In casual conversations, people often shorten their phrases. Here are some examples of how introductions might sound in puhekieli (spoken Finnish):
Mä oon [your name]. – “I’m [your name].” (instead of Minä olen)
Mun nimi on [your name]. – “My name is [your name].”
Mä asun [place]. – “I live in [place].”
Key Phrases to Remember
Minä olen… – “I am…”
Mun nimi on… – “My name is…”
Minä olen kotoisin… – “I am from…”
Minä asun… – “I live in…”
Hauska tutustua! – “Nice to meet you!”
With these phrases, you’re ready to introduce yourself in Finnish and start building connections with native speakers.
Onnea harjoitteluun! (Good luck with your practice!)