35 Other Ways to Say “Who Is This?” (With Examples)

In everyday communication, the way you ask a question can say a lot about you. When you ask “Who is this?” your choice of words can shape the tone, whether you’re in a professional setting or having a casual chat with a friend. I’ve found that using thoughtful, warm alternatives helps connect with others on a deeper level. In this article, we’ll explore 35 creative ways to rephrase, with examples and real-life offering ideas. These can convey care, respect, and genuine curiosity across different contexts.

When I write or speak, I focus on more than just the words; it’s about how I deliver them and whether they suit the moment. You can use a friendly approach with your close contacts or choose a tone that fits a meeting on a call or in person. The range of expressions available gives you freedom in any type of conversation.

What Does “Who Is This?” Mean?

The question “Who is this?” is typically used to ask about the identity of a person, often when you’re uncertain or surprised by someone’s presence. It’s a straightforward query, but how you phrase it can greatly impact how the interaction feels. A warmer, more personal approach can make a conversation more engaging and open, rather than sounding abrupt or impersonal.

When to Use “Who Is This?”

You’d usually ask “Who is this?” when you’re unsure of the identity of the person you’re speaking to, especially in situations where a direct introduction hasn’t occurred yet. Whether over the phone, via text, or in person, this question helps clarify who you’re interacting with. However, it’s important to consider tone and setting when you ask different situations may call for different approaches.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “Who Is This?”

In some contexts, saying “Who is this?” might come across as blunt or impolite, particularly in professional settings or formal conversations. To maintain politeness and professionalism, it’s helpful to choose an alternative that feels more courteous and considerate. Adapting your language based on the situation ensures you don’t unintentionally offend someone or appear overly casual.

Pros and Cons of Saying “Who Is This?”

Pros:

• Simple and direct
• Quick and clear way to inquire about someone’s identity
• Can be used in casual and informal situations

Cons:

• Can sound abrupt or curt, especially in more formal settings
• Lacks warmth and may come across as too blunt or impolite
• May not establish the same connection as a more thoughtful phrasing

Who Is This Synonyms:

• May I ask who’s calling?
• Who am I speaking with?
• Who do I have the pleasure of speaking with?
• Who might I be talking to?
• Who might I be talking to?
• Who is this, please?
• Could you tell me your name?
• I don’t believe we’ve met, who are you?
• Who’s this, if you don’t mind me asking?
• Would you mind telling me who this is?
• Could you remind me who you are?
• Who’s on the other end?
• Can you tell me your name?
• I’m sorry, who am I speaking to?
• Who’s calling, if you don’t mind?
• Would you mind telling me who’s speaking?
• Who do I have the pleasure of speaking with today?
• Could you kindly remind me of your name?
• Who might I have the pleasure of speaking to today?
• Could you please introduce yourself?
• Could you tell me who I’m speaking with?
• Who do I have the honor of speaking with?
• Who’s this on the line?
• Mind telling me who this is?
• Who am I speaking with, if you don’t mind?
• Would you mind telling me your name?
• Could you please remind me of who you are?
• Could you tell me who I’m speaking to, please?
• Who’s this, if I may ask?
• May I know who this is?
• Could you introduce yourself?
• Can I ask who this is?
• Who is calling, if you don’t mind?
• Who’s there?
• Would you care to introduce yourself?
• Could I know who this is?

May I ask who’s calling?

Meaning:
A polite, formal way of asking for the identity of someone on the other end of a phone call.

Explanation:
This phrasing is often used in professional settings or when you want to sound more respectful.

Example:
You answer the phone at work and want to know who’s on the line.

Best Use:
Customer service or business contexts where respect and professionalism are important.

Worst Use:
Casual or personal situations, where a more relaxed tone might be preferred.

Tone:
Professional, respectful, courteous.

Who am I speaking with?

Meaning:
Another formal way of asking who you’re talking to.

Explanation:
Commonly used over the phone, it’s a slightly warmer way to inquire about someone’s identity without sounding too distant.

Example:
Answering the phone and not recognizing the caller’s voice.

Best Use:
Formal conversations, like customer service or during an initial professional meeting.

Worst Use:
Informal or close conversations where you already know the person.

Tone:
Polite, formal, respectful.

Who do I have the pleasure of speaking with?

Meaning:
A warm, slightly more friendly way of asking who someone is.

Explanation:
This phrasing conveys interest and a sense of politeness. It can make the conversation feel more personal and welcoming.

Example:
Speaking with someone for the first time, such as a new colleague or client.

Best Use:
Business or professional settings where you want to express warmth without sounding too casual.

Worst Use:
Informal situations where you already know the person.

Tone:
Warm, polite, welcoming.

Who might I be talking to?

Meaning:
A softer and more tentative way to ask who someone is.

Explanation:
It suggests curiosity without demanding an answer, making it ideal for situations where you’re unsure.

Example:
A phone call where the caller hasn’t introduced themselves yet.

Best Use:
Casual conversations or calls where you’re unsure of the caller’s identity.

Worst Use:
Formal professional settings, where you might want a more direct approach.

Tone:
Casual, polite, somewhat curious.

Who is this, please?

Meaning:
A straightforward yet polite way to ask for someone’s identity.

Explanation:
This version adds the word please to soften the question and make it sound more respectful.

Example:
When you answer a phone call, and want to confirm who is speaking.

Best Use:
Calls or situations where politeness is necessary, such as customer service or formal meetings.

Worst Use:
Very informal or close relationships, where a simpler version might be better.

Tone:
Polite, direct, respectful.

Could you tell me your name?

Meaning:
A gentle way to ask for someone’s identity.

Explanation:
This phrasing assumes the person has already introduced themselves, but allows for the possibility they haven’t.

Example:
In a meeting or event where you’re speaking to someone whose name you don’t know yet.

Best Use:
Professional settings where you want to sound respectful without rushing the conversation.

Worst Use:
Casual settings where you already know the person’s name.

Tone:
Courteous, thoughtful, polite.

I don’t believe we’ve met, who are you?

Meaning:
A more personal way to ask someone’s identity when you’ve encountered them before but don’t recall their name.

Explanation:
This is a little more direct but can be softened with tone to make it sound friendly.

Example:
A situation where you meet someone at a party but can’t quite place them.

Best Use:
Social or casual situations, like parties or networking events.

Worst Use:
Professional or formal situations, where a more polished phrasing would be better.

Tone:
Friendly, casual, slightly inquisitive.

Who’s this, if you don’t mind me asking?

Meaning:
A polite and somewhat apologetic way to inquire about someone’s identity.

Explanation:
Adding if you don’t mind me asking softens the request, making it less intrusive.

Example:
When you’re unsure who’s calling and want to maintain politeness.

Best Use:
Casual or professional settings where you want to avoid sounding too direct.

Worst Use:
In situations where you already know the person or don’t need to ask.

Tone:
Polite, respectful, slightly tentative.

Would you mind telling me who this is?

Meaning:
Another polite way to ask for someone’s identity, especially when you’re uncertain.

Explanation:
This phrasing can be used when you’re unsure who’s contacting you and want to come across as courteous.

Example:
A business call where you’re uncertain about the caller’s identity.

Best Use:
Professional or formal contexts where respect and consideration are key.

Worst Use:
Informal or personal settings where you already know the person.

Tone:
Courteous, respectful, tentative.

Could you remind me who you are?

Meaning:
A polite way to ask for someone’s identity if you’ve met them before but don’t recall their name.

Explanation:
This phrase helps prevent awkwardness in situations where you’re trying to be polite but don’t want to appear forgetful.

Example:
Running into an old acquaintance at the grocery store, but struggling to remember their name.

Best Use:
Social or semi-formal situations where you need to ask politely without sounding rude.

Worst Use:
Professional settings where you should have remembered the person’s identity.

Tone:
Polite, friendly, slightly apologetic.

Who’s on the other end?

Meaning:
A casual, conversational way to ask for the identity of someone calling or messaging.

Explanation:
This phrasing works well when you want to sound informal and friendly, but still get the information you need.

Example:
Answering a phone call or text from an unknown number or contact.

Best Use:
Casual calls or messages, especially when you want to sound laid-back.

Worst Use:
Formal or professional situations, where a more respectful or polished approach might be better.

Tone:
Informal, friendly, casual.

Can you tell me your name?

Meaning:
A direct yet polite way to ask someone to identify themselves.

Explanation:
This is a straightforward approach that works in a variety of situations where you need to know who you’re talking to.

Example:
You answer a phone call but don’t recognize the voice.

Best Use:
Both casual and professional settings where the other person has not introduced themselves.

Worst Use:
In overly formal situations, a more indirect approach might be more fitting.

Tone:
Direct, polite, neutral.

I’m sorry, who am I speaking to?

Meaning:
A polite and apologetic way to ask for someone’s identity when you’re uncertain.

Explanation:
This phrasing softens the question and expresses humility, making it more respectful.

Example:
You pick up the phone, and the person on the other end hasn’t introduced themselves yet.

Best Use:
Professional and respectful contexts, where you want to be polite without coming off as rude.

Worst Use:
Casual conversations with friends or family, where a more relaxed question could be used.

Tone:
Polite, apologetic, respectful.

Who’s calling, if you don’t mind?

Meaning:
A courteous way to ask for someone’s identity, often used in phone conversations.

Explanation:
By adding, if you don’t mind, you make the question feel less intrusive.

Example:
Answering the phone at home and needing to confirm who’s calling.

Best Use:
Casual conversations, especially when you don’t want to be too direct.

Worst Use:
Formal business situations where a more direct approach might be expected.

Tone:
Casual, polite, slightly deferential.

Would you mind telling me who’s speaking?

Meaning:
A respectful way to ask someone’s name in a professional or courteous manner.

Explanation:
This question uses would you mind to soften the request, making it polite and respectful.

Example:
Answering a professional call and unsure of the identity of the caller.

Best Use:
Professional calls, business inquiries, or any formal communication.

Worst Use:
Casual or informal settings, where a simpler question would suffice.

Tone:
Polite, formal, respectful.

Who do I have the pleasure of speaking with today?

Meaning:
A friendly, warm approach to asking someone’s identity, often used in customer service or formal situations.

Explanation:
This phrasing expresses positivity and warmth, which helps make the conversation more pleasant.

Example:
A customer service representative answers a call and wants to know who they’re speaking with.

Best Use:
Customer service, business calls, or when trying to maintain a friendly, welcoming tone.

Worst Use:
Casual conversations where it might feel overly formal.

Tone:
Warm, friendly, professional.

Could you kindly remind me of your name?

Meaning:
A polite and respectful way of asking for someone’s identity.

Explanation:
By adding kindly, you make the question even more polite and considerate.

Example:
When meeting someone again after a while, you’ve forgotten their name.

Best Use:
In any situation where you want to express courtesy and respect, particularly in formal settings.

Worst Use:
Informal situations with friends, where a more casual approach could be better.

Tone:
Courteous, respectful, formal.

Who might I have the pleasure of speaking to today?

Meaning:
A polite and somewhat formal way of asking for someone’s name, with a touch of warmth.

Explanation:
This phrasing works well when you want to sound both professional and personable.

Example:
A business call where you don’t yet know the person’s name.

Best Use:
Professional settings where you want to be courteous but still warm.

Worst Use:
Informal contexts, as it may sound too formal for close relationships.

Tone:
Polite, formal, warm.

Could you please introduce yourself?

Meaning:
A respectful way to ask for someone’s name when you’re meeting them for the first time.

Explanation:
This phrase assumes that the person is about to introduce themselves, but it still asks directly for their name.

Example:
Meeting someone at a networking event or in a meeting where formal introductions may not have been made.

Best Use:
Professional or formal settings, such as conferences or business meetings.

Worst Use:
Casual settings or places where introductions are already expected.

Tone:
Respectful, formal, polite.

Could you tell me who I’m speaking with?

Meaning:
A polite and formal way to ask for someone’s identity in a conversation.

Explanation:
This phrasing works well when you want to express politeness and ensure clarity.

Example:
You’re talking to a new person over the phone or at a meeting and need to confirm their name.

Best Use:
Professional settings or formal conversations, especially when you want to be sure of the person’s identity.

Worst Use:
Casual settings where a more relaxed or informal approach might feel more natural.

Tone:
Polite, formal, respectful.

Who do I have the honor of speaking with?

Meaning:
A formal and respectful way to ask for someone’s name, often used to convey a sense of importance or respect.

Explanation:
This phrasing is usually reserved for high-level conversations or settings where you want to show deference or politeness.

Example:
A business meeting or formal conference call where you want to show respect for the other party.

Best Use:
High-level professional settings or when addressing someone with whom you want to convey utmost respect.

Worst Use:
Casual or informal situations, where it might sound overly stiff or too formal.

Tone:
Formal, respectful, deferential.

Who’s this on the line?

Meaning:
A more casual, conversational way to ask for someone’s identity, often used in phone calls.

Explanation:
It’s a slightly informal way to inquire about the person calling, suitable for situations where you don’t need to be overly formal.

Example:
You’re answering the phone at home, and you don’t recognize the number or the voice.

Best Use:
Casual settings, especially when the caller is unknown or the conversation is informal.

Worst Use:
Professional or formal settings where more politeness or respect is expected.

Tone:
Casual, friendly, informal.

Mind telling me who this is?

Meaning:
A casual, slightly direct way to ask for someone’s identity, often used when you don’t recognize the person.

Explanation:
This phrasing is informal, but not rude-it’s just straightforward. It can be used when you’re in a rush or when the situation calls for simplicity.

Example:
Answering a phone call at work or home, and needing to confirm the caller’s identity quickly.

Best Use:
Informal conversations or scenarios where a direct approach is appropriate.

Worst Use:
Situations where a more polite or softer phrasing is required, like formal business calls.

Tone:
Direct, casual, informal.

Who am I speaking with, if you don’t mind?

Meaning:
A polite, gentle way to inquire about someone’s identity, softening the question with if you don’t mind.

Explanation:
This version of the question comes across as respectful and considerate, often used when you want to avoid sounding demanding.

Example:
A business call where you’re unsure of the person’s identity, but you want to maintain professionalism.

Best Use:
Professional or semi-formal situations where you want to maintain politeness.

Worst Use:
Close friendships or situations where you already know the person’s identity.

Tone:
Polite, respectful, gentle.

Would you mind telling me your name?

Meaning:
A respectful and polite way to ask for someone’s identity, often used when you want to avoid sounding too abrupt.

Explanation:
By using would you mind, you soften the question and express courtesy, making it sound more considerate.

Example:
In a formal conversation or business meeting where you need to know the person’s name to proceed.

Best Use:
Professional or formal settings, when politeness is key.

Worst Use:
Informal settings where a more casual approach could be appropriate.

Tone:
Polite, formal, respectful.

Could you please remind me of who you are?

Meaning:
A more gentle way of asking for someone’s identity, particularly useful when you’ve met them before but need a little help recalling.

Explanation:
This phrase acknowledges that you may have forgotten the person’s name, but softens it with politeness.

Example:
Running into an old colleague at a networking event or conference.

Best Use:
Semi-formal or professional settings where you need to reconnect with someone you’ve met previously.

Worst Use:
Situations where you already know the person’s identity or where you don’t want to appear forgetful.

Tone:
Courteous, respectful, slightly apologetic.

Could you tell me who I’m speaking to, please?

Meaning:
A polite, formal way of asking for someone’s name.

Explanation:
Adding please makes this phrasing even more polite and respectful, making it ideal for formal situations.

Example:
Answering a business call and not knowing who is calling.

Best Use:
Professional or formal settings where politeness is important.

Worst Use:
Informal settings where the tone may come across as too stiff.

Tone:
Polite, formal, respectful.

Who’s this, if I may ask?

Meaning:
A polite and respectful way to inquire about someone’s identity.

Explanation:
By adding, if I may ask, you soften the question, which helps make it sound less direct and more courteous.

Example:
A phone call from an unknown number where you want to ask who’s calling without seeming rude.

Best Use:
Professional or formal conversations where you need to maintain politeness.

Worst Use:
Close relationships, where a more relaxed approach is expected.

Tone:
Polite, formal, respectful.

May I know who this is?

Meaning:
A formal way to ask someone’s identity.

Explanation:
This phrasing is straightforward yet polite, often used in professional or courteous settings.

Example:
A business call where you need to confirm the caller’s identity.

Best Use:
Professional or formal settings where you need to be clear and polite.

Worst Use:
Casual or informal contexts where a friendlier, more relaxed tone is appropriate.

Tone:
Formal, polite, respectful.

Could you introduce yourself?

Meaning:
A straightforward, polite way of asking someone to identify themselves.

Explanation:
This phrasing is most appropriate in situations where you expect the person to introduce themselves, but they haven’t yet.

Example:
Meeting someone at a conference or event and waiting for them to introduce themselves.

Best Use:
Formal settings or events where introductions are expected but haven’t occurred yet.

Worst Use:
Informal or close relationships where a simpler phrasing would be sufficient.

Tone:
Formal, polite, neutral.

Can I ask who this is?

Meaning:
A polite, slightly informal way to inquire about someone’s identity.

Explanation:
This phrasing is slightly more casual than May I ask? But still polite enough to use in most situations.

Example:
Answering a phone call or receiving a message from an unknown number.

Best Use:
Semi-formal settings, or casual but respectful conversations.

Worst Use:
In professional situations where a more formal question may be expected.

Tone:
Casual, polite, neutral.

Who is calling, if you don’t mind?

Meaning:
A polite and indirect way to ask who is calling.

Explanation:
The inclusion of if you don’t mind makes the question sound more courteous and less demanding.

Example:
A call at home from an unknown number or from a person you haven’t heard from in a while.

Best Use:
Informal situations or when you want to maintain a polite tone.

Worst Use:
Formal business settings, where a more direct question would be more appropriate.

Tone:
Polite, respectful, informal.

Who’s there?

Meaning:
A more casual way to ask about someone’s identity, often used when you can’t see the person but hear them.

Explanation:
This phrase is informal and used when you’re in a setting where familiarity is expected.

Example:
Answering the door or speaking to someone behind a door or barrier.

Best Use:
Informal settings, especially when you expect to know the person.

Worst Use:
Professional or formal settings, where a more polite approach is necessary.

Tone:
Casual, informal, friendly.

Would you care to introduce yourself?

Meaning:
A polite and formal way to ask someone to identify themselves, often used in a situation where an introduction is expected.

Explanation:
This phrasing is respectful and suggests that the other person is in a position to introduce themselves at their convenience.

Example:
At a conference, meeting, or event where introductions are customary.

Best Use:
Formal events, professional meetings, or when you want to express respect while waiting for the person to introduce themselves.

Worst Use:
Casual or close-knit settings, where the interaction should be more relaxed.

Tone:
Formal, respectful, polite.

Could I know who this is?

Meaning:
A slightly formal yet direct way to inquire about someone’s identity.

Explanation:
This is a direct question that still maintains a level of politeness with could I in place of can I.

Example:
A professional call where you don’t recognize the caller’s voice.

Best Use:
Formal business calls or polite professional exchanges.

Worst Use:
Informal situations, where a more relaxed phrasing may be preferable.

Tone:
Formal, polite, neutral.

Conclusion

There’s more than one way to ask “Who is this?“-and the right approach can make all the difference in how a conversation unfolds. Whether you need a formal, respectful tone or a more relaxed, friendly one, these 35 alternatives allow you to express curiosity without being too abrupt.

By choosing the most appropriate phrasing for the situation, you can foster better connections, sound more thoughtful, and show respect to the person on the other end of the conversation. Your choice of words says a lot about how you communicate with these alternatives; you’ll have no trouble starting meaningful, engaging conversations!

FAQs

Why should I avoid always saying “Who Is This?”

Repeating the same phrase can sound blunt or unfriendly, especially in text. Using alternatives can make your question feel warmer and more respectful.

What are some polite alternatives to “Who Is This?”

Examples include: May I know who’s speaking?, Could you tell me your name? Or who am I chatting with today?

Can I use casual alternatives in a professional setting?

In most professional contexts, stick to formal and clear wording. Save casual phrases for friends or informal chats.

How do I choose the right alternative?

Think about your relationship with the person, the medium (text, email, call), and the tone you want to set.

Are these alternatives useful for international communication?

Yes, just choose simple, clear wording so your question is easily understood, even if the other person is not a native English speaker.