What is a common mistake with “Memnun oldum”?

✗ Memnun oldum (to an old friend) → ✓ Seni gördüğüme sevindim: Memnun oldum is only for new people.

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How to say “Nice to meet you” in Turkish

Q: How is “Memnun oldum” used in a conversation?

Mehmet: Ben Mehmet. (I'm Mehmet.) Lisa: Ben de Lisa. Memnun oldum! (And I'm Lisa. Nice to meet you!) Mehmet: Ben de memnun oldum. (Nice to meet you too.)

Memnun oldum.

mehm·noon ohl·doom

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Meaning: Nice to meet you.
Pronunciation: mehm·noon ohl·doom

What “Memnun oldum” really means

Memnun oldum means "Nice to meet you", literally "I became pleased". Say it after you hear someone's name. The answer is "Ben de memnun oldum" (I'm pleased too).

💬 Example dialogues

MehmetBen Mehmet.I'm Mehmet.

LisaBen de Lisa. Memnun oldum!And I'm Lisa. Nice to meet you!

MehmetBen de memnun oldum.Nice to meet you too.

SelinBu kardeşim Can.This is my brother Can.

TomMemnun oldum, Can.Nice to meet you, Can.

🚫 When NOT to use it

It is for first meetings only. Do not say it to a friend you already know; there use "Seni gördüğüme sevindim" (good to see you).

🇹🇷 Culture note

In business, the more formal "Tanıştığımıza memnun oldum" is common. Turks often add a handshake and repeat your name to remember it.

⚠️ Common mistakes

✗ Memnun oldum (to an old friend) → ✓ Seni gördüğüme sevindimMemnun oldum is only for new people.

Culture tip

Turks are thrilled when a foreigner tries Turkish. A simple Merhaba, ben… wins you smiles, tea and new friends.