How to Say "What is your name?" in Somali

Learning to ask "What is your name?" in Somali is one of the first steps to connecting with Somali speakers. Somali is written using the Latin script, making it accessible for English speakers to read and practise. This phrase is used daily across Somalia and the global Somali diaspora. It is friendly, natural, and easy to learn.

Somali Translation & Pronunciation

Written:

Magacaagu waa maxay?

Pronunciation (approximate):

Ma-ga-CAA-gu waa ma-HAY

IPA:

/mæɡæˈtʃaːɡu waː mæˈxæj/

"Magacaagu" stresses the third syllable. The double "a" in "waa" is held longer. "Maxay" ends with a soft "y" sound.

All Variations: Formal, Informal & Emphatic

Use the table below to choose the right phrase:

Magacaaga maxaa la yidhaahdaa?

Polite or professional settings requiring more respect

Formal

Ma-ga-CAA-ga ma-KHAA la yid-HAA-daa

Magacaagu waa maxay?

Everyday use when meeting someone new

Neutral

Ma-ga-CAA-gu waa ma-HAY

Example Sentences

Formal

English

Welcome to our office. What is your name, please?

Somali

Ku soo dhowow xafiiskeenna. Magacaaga maxaa la yidhaahdaa, fadlan?

General

English

Hi! What is your name? I'm Ahmed.

Somali

Salaam! Magacaagu waa maxay? Magacaygu waa Ahmed.

When to Use

Use this phrase when meeting a Somali speaker for the first time. It suits casual and semi-formal settings alike. In formal introductions, a slightly restructured version may be preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you answer "What is your name?" in Somali?

Reply with "Magacaygu waa [your name]" meaning "My name is [your name]." For example: "Magacaygu waa Faadumo."

What is the difference between "magacaagu" and "magacaaga" in Somali?

"Magacaagu" is the subject form meaning "your name is," while "magacaaga" is the object form. Both refer to your name but are used in slightly different grammatical structures.

How do you say "What is your name?" in Somali?

The most common way is "Magacaagu waa maxay?" It is natural, widely understood, and used in everyday conversation across Somalia and the diaspora.

Translate Full Sentences

Want to translate more than just one phrase? Use our English to Somali Translator to instantly translate full sentences, conversations, and messages.

Translate English to Somali →