Italian Phrase
L'onore è mio, grazie.
Meaning
This phrase is a highly formal and polite way to respond when someone expresses that it is a pleasure to meet or work with you. It conveys deep respect and humility, suggesting that you are the one who feels privileged by the encounter.
When to use
Use this phrase in formal social settings, professional environments, or when meeting someone of high status. It is the standard response to 'È un onore conoscerla' (It is an honor to meet you).
✦Grammar Breakdown
L'onoreèmio,grazie
L'onore
The masculine noun 'onore' starts with a vowel, so the definite article 'lo' becomes 'l' with an apostrophe.
Essere (è)
The verb 'essere' is used here in the third-person singular present tense to link the subject to the possessive.
Mio
This possessive pronoun agrees in gender (masculine) and number (singular) with the noun 'onore'.
🗨In Conversation
È un vero onore averla qui con noi oggi.
It is a true honor to have you here with us today.
L'onore è mio, grazie.
The honor is mine, thank you.
✕Common Mistakes
L'onore è il mio, grazie.
In this specific idiomatic response, the definite article 'il' is usually omitted before the possessive 'mio'.
L'onore è me, grazie.
You must use the possessive pronoun 'mio' (mine) rather than the object pronoun 'me' (me) to indicate the honor belongs to you.
↔Alternatives
Il piacere è mio.
The pleasure is mine.
Tutto mio il piacere.
The pleasure is all mine.
Dovere mio.
My duty (used when someone thanks you for a service).
Cultural Tip
Italian culture places significant value on formal registers (dare del lei) in professional and official contexts. Using 'L'onore è mio' demonstrates a sophisticated command of the language and an understanding of traditional Italian etiquette, often making a very positive first impression.