French Phrase
Au nom de qui ?
Meaning
Literally “In whose name?” It is used to ask on whose behalf someone is acting, speaking, or making a request. The phrase is concise and can be formal or neutral depending on tone.
When to use
Use this question when you answer a phone call, when you receive a document, or when you need to know who authorized an action—e.g., at a reception desk, in a business meeting, or during a legal procedure.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Aunomdequi?
Au (preposition)
Combines the preposition "à" + "le" and means "at" or "in" when used before a noun.
nom (noun)
Means "name"; here it refers to the name under which an action is performed.
de (preposition)
Indicates possession or origin, translating to "of" in English.
qui (interrogative pronoun)
Used to ask about a person; here it asks "who".
🗨In Conversation
Au nom de qui ?
In whose name?
Je suis au nom de M. Dupont.
I am on behalf of Mr. Dupont.
✕Common Mistakes
Qui est le nom ?
Mixes up the verb "être" with the noun "nom"; the correct structure uses the preposition "de".
Au nom de quoi ?
"Quoi" asks about things, not people; use "qui" for persons.
De qui ?
"De qui ?" is grammatically correct but sounds abrupt; "Au nom de qui ?" is the standard polite form.
↔Alternatives
Pour qui ?
For whom?
Au nom de quelle personne ?
In the name of which person?
Qui représente-t-il ?
Who does he represent?
Cultural Tip
In French‑speaking countries, especially in formal settings like offices, banks, or when answering a phone, it is polite to ask "Au nom de qui?" before proceeding. Adding "Monsieur" or "Madame" after the answer (e.g., "Au nom de Monsieur Dupont") shows respect. In casual conversation you might simply say "C’est pour qui?".