Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'surname' is expressed primarily through the word 名字 (myōji) or 姓 (sei). However, usage depends heavily on context, formality, and whether you are referring to your own name or someone else's. Japanese surnames come before given names, and the word for 'surname' itself is often omitted in natural conversation when asking for or giving names.
The most common, everyday word for 'surname' or 'family name'.
The standard, neutral word for 'surname' or 'family name'. Used in most everyday situations.
あなたの名字は何ですか？
What is your surname?
名字を教えてください。
Please tell me your surname.
A slightly more formal or written term for 'surname'. Often used in official documents or when contrasting with the given name (名).
姓と名を記入してください。
Please fill in your surname and given name.
Natural ways to ask for a person's family name in conversation.
The most natural way to ask for someone's name in Japanese. It does not specify 'surname', but in context it usually refers to the family name, especially in formal situations. Literally 'Your name?'.
すみません、お名前は？
Excuse me, what's your name?
Directly asks 'What is your surname?'. Grammatically correct but can sound a bit blunt; softer forms are preferred.
名字は何ですか？
What is your surname?
A very polite, formal way to ask for someone's surname. Suitable for business or formal settings.
失礼ですが、名字を伺ってもよろしいですか？
Excuse me, but may I ask your surname?
How to state your family name naturally.
The simplest way to give your surname is to say it followed by です. You do not need to say 'My surname is...' unless clarification is needed.
田中です。
I'm Tanaka. / My surname is Tanaka.
Explicitly states 'My surname is Tanaka'. Used when you need to distinguish between surname and given name.
名字は田中で、名前は太郎です。
My surname is Tanaka, and my given name is Taro.
Understanding that Japanese surnames come first, and how to clarify order.
In Japanese, the surname comes before the given name. If there is confusion, you can say 名字が先です (The surname comes first).
日本では名字が先です。
In Japan, the surname comes first.
Referring to a woman's surname before marriage.
In Japanese, the family name comes first, followed by the given name. When introducing yourself, you usually give your full name with surname first, or just your surname in formal settings. The word 名前 (なまえ) can mean either full name or given name depending on context, so if you need to be specific, use 名字 for surname and 名前 for given name.
In natural conversation, Japanese speakers often omit the word 'surname' entirely. Asking 'お名前は？' or simply stating your name is more common than explicitly saying '名字は何ですか？' or '名字は田中です'. Use explicit terms only when clarification is needed.
ここに名字を書いてください。
Please write your surname here.
名字はスミスです。
My surname is Smith.