Wie heißen Sie?
Meaning
Wie heißen Sie? means What's your name?.
When to use
Basic name question for introductions. Use this in first conversations when exchanging basic personal information.
How it works
Treat this as a ready-made phrase first. After it feels familiar, compare the translation and pronunciation chunks to see which part carries the request, object, place, or politeness.
Nuance
Safe default for strangers unless the note says otherwise. German may switch between du and Sie; this phrase is chosen to stay useful for beginners.
Watch out
Avoid translating word by word when speaking. Say the phrase as a complete chunk first.
Useful detail
German learners should focus on when the phrase is natural, not only its literal translation. Category: Meeting people.
Notes
Basic name question for introductions. Safe default for strangers unless the note says otherwise.