מה שמך?
What's your name?
Ma shimcha? (m) / Ma shmech? (f)
Ask someone their name.
Context: Changes based on who you're asking. Essential introduction question.
⚠️ Gender Note: This phrase changes based on the speaker's gender. Use baba for the correct form based on your gender.
How to Use "What's your name?" in a Conversation
Example conversation:
A: Changes based on who you're asking.
B: מה שמך?
This phrase is considered neutral in register and is at a beginner difficulty level for Hebrew learners.
How to Pronounce "מה שמך?"
Ma shimcha? (m) / Ma shmech? (f)
Break it down: Ma — shimcha? — (m) — / — Ma — shmech? — (f)
Hebrew is read from right to left. The transliteration above follows English reading order (left to right) to help you pronounce each sound correctly.
Cultural Tips for Using This Phrase
In Israel, this phrase works in most situations — from talking to friends to speaking with shopkeepers or colleagues.
Hebrew is a gendered language. This phrase changes depending on who is speaking or being spoken to. baba automatically handles gender for you in translations.
Body language matters in Israel. When saying "what's your name?", Israelis will appreciate your effort to speak Hebrew, even if imperfect. Don't be afraid to try!
Learning "What's your name?" — Quick Reference
| Hebrew | מה שמך? |
| Pronunciation | Ma shimcha? (m) / Ma shmech? (f) |
| English | What's your name? |
| Category | questions |
| Difficulty | beginner |
| Gender-specific | Yes — changes by gender |
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