French Phrase
C'est au nom de John Smith.
Meaning
Literally, "It is in the name of John Smith." The sentence is used to indicate that something—such as a bank account, a ticket, a contract, or a piece of property—is registered or issued under John Smith's name.
When to use
Use this phrase in formal or semi‑formal situations when you need to specify the holder of a document, an account, a reservation, or any official record. It is common in offices, banks, travel agencies, and when filling out paperwork.
✦Grammar Breakdown
C'estaunomdeJohnSmith.
C'est
Contraction of "ce est" meaning "it is"; used before a noun or phrase.
au
Combination of the preposition "à" + definite article "le"; means "to the" or "in the" before masculine singular nouns.
nom
Noun meaning "name"; often used in the fixed expression "au nom de".
de
Preposition meaning "of"; introduces the possessor after "nom".
Proper name order
In French, foreign proper names keep their original order; no article is added before the name.
🗨In Conversation
Je voudrais ouvrir un compte bancaire.
I would like to open a bank account.
C'est au nom de John Smith.
It is in the name of John Smith.
✕Common Mistakes
C'est à le nom de John Smith.
"à le" must contract to "au"; the correct form is "au nom de".
C'est au nom de le John Smith.
Do not add an article before a foreign proper name; just say the name.
C'est au nom de John Smiths.
The name stays unchanged; do not add an "s" for plural or possessive.
↔Alternatives
C'est au nom de M. Smith.
It is in the name of Mr. Smith.
C'est au nom de John.
It is in the name of John.
Le compte est au nom de John Smith.
The account is in the name of John Smith.
Cultural Tip
The expression "au nom de" is a set phrase used in official and administrative language. In French business or legal contexts, always use the full name (or title + surname) to avoid ambiguity. Avoid using first names only in formal paperwork unless the person is widely known by that name.