How to Introduce Yourself in Croatian

Essential phrases for introducing yourself in Croatian

First, here are some simple and important phrases you can use when introducing yourself in Croatian. Pay attention to the formal and informal ways of asking questions, as this will help you sound more natural in different situations.

Introducing someone else is a common part of social interactions. Whether it's a friend, colleague, or family member, knowing how to do so correctly will help you sound more natural.

Here are three simple ways to say “My name is…” in Croatian:

• Zovem se… (I am called…)
• Moje ime je… (My name is…)
• Ja sam… (I am…)

When asking someone their name in Croatian, it’s important to consider whether the situation is formal or informal.

In formal settings, such as business situations or when speaking to someone you don’t know well, you’ll use the formal pronoun Vi (you). In casual situations, you’ll use the informal ti (you).

Here’s how to ask for someone’s name:

• Kako se zovete? (What is your name?) [formal]
• Kako se zoveš? (What is your name?) [informal]

The verb zvati se is used here, meaning “to be called.” So, the phrase literally translates to “How are you called?” While it might sound unusual in English, it’s completely natural in Croatian.

You can also ask:

• Koje je vaše ime? (What is your name?) [formal]
• Koje je tvoje ime? (What is your name?) [informal]

There might be moments when you need to introduce a friend or colleague. Here’s how to handle that, depending on the context:

Formal:

• Mogu li vam predstaviti…? – May I introduce…?
• Dopustite da vam predstavim svog suradnika. – Allow me to introduce my colleague.
• Želim vam predstaviti svog menadžera. – I’d like to introduce my manager.

Informal:

• Mogu li ti predstaviti…? – Can I introduce…?
• Ovo je moja prijateljica Marija. – This is my friend Maria.
• Upoznaj mog ujaka, Ivana. – Meet my uncle, Ivan.

When meeting someone new in Croatia, it’s always polite to express that you're glad to make their acquaintance. Here are a few common ways to do that:

• Drago mi je da vas upoznam. – Pleased to meet you. [formal]
• Drago mi je da te upoznam! – Nice to meet you! [informal]
• Drago mi je! – It’s a pleasure!
• I meni je drago! – Nice to meet you, too!



While formal phrases are common in business settings, the more casual ones are used in day-to-day conversations. Knowing when to use which can make your interactions feel more comfortable and appropriate. However, the shorter phrases such as Drago mi je and I meni je drago work well in most situations, whether you’re being formal or casual.

Once you’re comfortable introducing yourself, the next step is engaging in small talk.

Small talk is essential in everyday interactions, whether you're meeting someone new, getting to know a colleague, or just making casual conversation with a stranger. It helps build rapport and makes interactions feel more natural and friendly.

For those learning new words or needing a quick reference while practicing, you can always check out a Croatian to English dictionary to expand your vocabulary and improve fluency.

Here are 15 useful phrases in Croatian that will help you a lot when navigating everyday conversations:

• Kako si? – How are you? [informal]
• Kako ste? – How are you? [formal]
• Što radiš? – What are you doing? [informal]
• Što radite? – What are you doing? [formal]
• Odakle ste? – Where are you from? [formal]
• Odakle si? – Where are you from? [informal]
• Što voliš raditi? – What do you like to do?
• Imate li obitelj? – Do you have a family? [formal]
• Imaš li braću ili sestre? – Do you have any brothers or sisters? [informal]
• Koliko godina imaš? – How old are you? [informal]
• Koliko imate godina? – How old are you? [formal]
• Volim putovati. – I love traveling.
• Koji je tvoj omiljeni film? – What is your favorite movie?
• Tko je tvoj omiljeni glazbenik? – Who is your favorite musician?
• Možeš li mi pomoći? – Can you help me?



These phrases are very good for starting casual conversations and getting to know someone better. The key is (obviously) to practice them often, so they become second nature when you need them.

While spontaneous conversations with strangers can be exciting, it’s always good to have a clear understanding of who you’re speaking to—and for others to know who you are.

With a little practice, Croatian is actually not a very difficult language to grasp, especially once you start to learn a few key phrases like the ones mentioned. As you interact with native speakers, you’ll quickly gain confidence.



The more you practice introducing yourself and engaging in small talk, the more natural it will feel. So, take your time, practice, and enjoy your journey with the Croatian language!