Spanish Phrase
Me llamo Lisa, tengo 28 años.
Meaning
This phrase is a standard way to introduce yourself in Spanish, providing both your name and age. It uses the reflexive verb 'llamarse' (to call oneself) and the verb 'tener' (to have) for age, which is a key difference from English.
When to use
Use this when meeting new people or in social situations where introductions are expected. It is a polite and direct way to provide basic personal information.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Me llamoLisatengo28años
Llamarse
This is a reflexive verb meaning 'to call oneself', used for introducing your name.
Tener
The verb 'tener' means 'to have' and is used to express age in Spanish.
🗨In Conversation
¿Cómo te llamas y cuántos años tienes?
What is your name and how old are you?
Me llamo Lisa, tengo 28 años.
My name is Lisa, I am 28 years old.
✕Common Mistakes
Soy llamo Lisa, soy 28 años.
Use 'me llamo' for names and 'tengo' for age instead of 'ser'.
Tengo 28 años viejos.
Spanish doesn't use the word 'old' when stating age; simply state the number of years.
↔Alternatives
Mi nombre es Lisa.
My name is Lisa.
Soy Lisa.
I am Lisa.
Cultural Tip
Using 'llamarse' is the most natural way to introduce yourself in the Spanish-speaking world. Note that 'tener' is always used for age because you 'possess' years in Spanish, reflecting a different conceptualization of time compared to English.