自己紹介をする

You use this phrase as a standard verb-object combo. The noun is 自己紹介 and the action is する. You can make it polite by saying 自己紹介をします. If you are in a group, you might say 自己紹介をしましょう (let's introduce ourselves). It is very flexible and works in almost any grammatical structure. You can even use it to describe someone else's action. For example, "He introduced himself" becomes 彼は自己紹介をしました.

Use this anytime you are the "new person" in the room. This happens at the start of a new school term. It happens on your first day at a new job. You will use it at a hobby club or a party. Even in a professional Zoom meeting, this phrase is your best friend. If you are texting a group chat for the first time, use it there too. It signals that you are ready to be part of the community. It shows you have good manners and social awareness.

Do not use this with people you already know well. That would be very awkward and confusing. If you have met someone once but forgot their name, don't "introduce" yourself again. Just apologize for forgetting. Also, avoid using it in very brief, anonymous encounters. You don't need to 自己紹介をする to the cashier at the convenience store. That might result in some very confused stares and a long line behind you. Keep it for situations where a relationship is actually starting.

In Japan, the 自己紹介 is a formal ritual. It is often expected to follow a specific pattern. You start with はじめまして (Nice to meet you). Then you give your details. You always end with よろしくお願いします (Please treat me well). This ritual helps lower social anxiety for everyone involved. It establishes a clear hierarchy and social context immediately. Even children are taught to do this perfectly from a young age. It is a key part of Japanese harmony, or wa.

In business, you might hear the humbler 自己紹介をさせていただきます. This means "Please allow me to introduce myself." It sounds very professional and respectful. If you want to be more casual, you can drop the を and just say 自己紹介する. You might also hear 簡単な自己紹介 which means a "short/simple introduction." This is great when you are short on time. Sometimes people say 自己紹介をお願いします to ask you to introduce yourself. Be ready when you hear that one!