French Phrase
Je m'appelle Lisa, j'ai 28 ans.
Meaning
This phrase provides a standard introduction by stating a name and an age. It uses the reflexive verb 's'appeler' for the name and the verb 'avoir' (to have) for the age, which is a fundamental difference from English.
When to use
Use this when meeting someone for the first time in social or semi-formal settings. It is a polite and direct way to introduce yourself.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Jem'appelleLisa,j'ai28ans
S'appeler
This is a reflexive verb meaning 'to call oneself'. 'Je m'appelle' literally means 'I call myself'.
Avoir (Age)
Unlike English, French uses the verb 'avoir' (to have) to express age. 'J'ai' is the contraction of 'Je' and 'ai'.
🗨In Conversation
Bonjour ! Comment vous appelez-vous ?
Hello! What is your name?
Je m'appelle Lisa, j'ai 28 ans.
My name is Lisa, I am 28 years old.
✕Common Mistakes
Je suis 28 ans.
French uses the verb 'avoir' (to have) for age, never 'être' (to be).
Je m'appelle Lisa, j'ai 28.
In French, you must include the word 'ans' (years) after the number when stating your age.
↔Alternatives
Moi, c'est Lisa.
I'm Lisa (informal).
Mon nom est Lisa et j'ai 28 ans.
My name is Lisa and I am 28 years old.
Cultural Tip
In France, it is common to state your age in social contexts like school or hobby groups, but it is less common in formal business meetings unless it is relevant. Always remember to add 'ans' at the end of your age to sound natural.