SpeeekDownload on the App Store
Back to Greetings

German Phrase

Ich bin Alex.

/ɪç bɪn ˈalɛks/
Meaning"I am Alex."
💡

Meaning

This is a fundamental introductory phrase in German used to identify oneself. It consists of the pronoun 'Ich' (I), the verb 'bin' (am), and the name of the speaker.

🎯

When to use

This phrase is used in almost any social situation, from casual parties to professional networking events, to introduce yourself to others.

✦Grammar Breakdown

IchbinAlex

1

Ich

The first-person singular pronoun 'I'. In German, it is only capitalized at the beginning of a sentence.

2

bin

The first-person singular present tense form of the irregular verb 'sein' (to be).

🗨In Conversation

A

Hallo! Wie heißt du?

Hello! What is your name?

Ich bin Alex. Und du?

I am Alex. And you?

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Ich sein Alex.

    'Sein' is the infinitive form; you must conjugate it to 'bin' when referring to yourself.

  • Ich ist Alex.

    'Ist' is the third-person singular form; 'bin' is the correct first-person singular form.

↔Alternatives

  • Ich heiße Alex.

    I am called Alex.

  • Mein Name ist Alex.

    My name is Alex.

de

Cultural Tip

While 'Ich bin' is universally understood, in very formal German settings, it is common to introduce yourself with your full name or even just your last name. Always accompany an introduction with a friendly nod or a handshake.