25 Polite Ways to Say “We Have Not Met” (With Example)

We have not met–We Have Not Met works as a polite way to start a conversation when two people haven’t had a chance to be introduced or acquainted yet.

From a context and social cue view, this phrase shows intent for a first meeting, even without face-to-face interaction. Through digital communication, simple contact builds awareness, familiarity, and supports a proper introduction, which I’ve used in my own history to show respect and shared understanding.

What Does “We Have Not Met” Mean?

“We Have Not Met” means two people have not been introduced or acquainted yet. It signals recognition of the other person while showing a polite intention to connect or start a conversation. This phrase is often used in both professional and casual settings.

When to Use “We Have Not Met”

Use “We Have Not Met” when you want to:

• Politely acknowledge someone you know digitally but haven’t met in person.
• Start a conversation with warmth and respect.
• Clarify first meeting intent in social, professional, or networking contexts.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “We Have Not Met”?

Yes, saying “We Have Not Met” is professional and polite, particularly in emails, phone conversations, online meetings, or networking events. The tone is neutral, friendly, and non-intrusive, making it suitable for both formal and casual introductions.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Polite and professional
• Signals intention to connect
• Acknowledges previous remote interaction

Cons:

• Slightly formal in casual settings
• May feel distant if overused

It’s a Pleasure to Meet You

Meaning & Explanation: This phrase expresses delight at meeting someone for the first time while maintaining politeness.

Example:
“It’s a pleasure to meet you, I’ve heard great things about your work.”

Best Use: Formal introductions, professional meetings.
Worst Use: Overly casual social settings where warmth is expected.
Tone: Warm, professional, courteous

I Don’t Believe We’ve Met Before

Meaning & Explanation: A polite way to acknowledge the lack of prior introduction.

Example:
“I don’t believe we’ve met before. I’m Sarah, nice to meet you.”

Best Use: Professional networking, office settings.
Worst Use: When you already know the person personally.
Tone: Respectful, formal, approachable

I Don’t Think We’ve Had the Chance to Meet

Meaning & Explanation: Indicates missed opportunity without implying fault.

Example:
“I don’t think we’ve had the chance to meet. I’m John, nice to meet you.”

Best Use: Casual networking, email introductions.
Worst Use: Too repetitive if used multiple times in the same interaction.
Tone: Friendly, polite, neutral

“Allow Me to Introduce Myself”

Meaning & Explanation: Directly presents yourself while highlighting politeness.

Example:
“Allow me to introduce myself. I’m Priya, and I manage client relations here.”

Best Use: Formal events, professional meetings.
Worst Use: Can feel stiff in casual social gatherings.
Tone: Formal, courteous, confident

I Don’t Think We’ve Crossed Paths Before

Meaning & Explanation: A soft, professional way to note unfamiliarity while remaining courteous.

Example:
“I don’t think we’ve crossed paths before. I’m Alex, happy to connect.”

Best Use: Conferences, professional networking.
Worst Use: Casual small-group introductions.
Tone: Neutral, polite, professional

It Seems We Haven’t Met Yet

Meaning & Explanation: A gentle, conversational approach to introducing yourself.

Example:
“It seems we haven’t met yet. I’m Maria from marketing.”

Best Use: Casual professional meetings, small group introductions.
Worst Use: Very formal presentations.
Tone: Friendly, approachable, polite

I Don’t Recall Meeting You Before

Meaning & Explanation: A tactful way to acknowledge you haven’t met previously.

Example:
“I don’t recall meeting you before. I’m Daniel, nice to meet you.”

Best Use: Professional settings, polite gatherings.
Worst Use: Can sound forgetful if not careful.
Tone: Polite, respectful, cautious

We Haven’t Been Introduced Yet

Meaning & Explanation: Straightforward statement emphasizing the lack of formal introduction.

Example:
“We haven’t been introduced yet. I’m Laura, happy to meet you.”

Best Use: Networking, business introductions.
Worst Use: Informal events where a softer tone is preferred.
Tone: Clear, polite, neutral

I Don’t Think We’ve Met in Person

Meaning & Explanation: Highlights that prior interaction may have been remote or digital.

Example:
“I don’t think we’ve met in person, though we’ve exchanged emails. I’m Mark.”

Best Use: Digital-to-physical introductions.
Worst Use: When meeting someone casually at a social event.
Tone: Professional, polite, neutral

We Haven’t Had the Pleasure of Meeting

Meaning & Explanation: Emphasizes politeness and a positive attitude toward future interaction.

Example:
“We haven’t had the pleasure of meeting. I’m Sophie, nice to meet you.”

Best Use: Formal, professional, or networking events.
Worst Use: Informal situations with peers.
Tone: Courteous, warm, professional

It Looks Like We Haven’t Met Yet

Meaning & Explanation: Casual and friendly way to introduce yourself.

Example:
“It looks like we haven’t met yet. I’m Tom from the sales team.”

Best Use: Casual office introductions.
Worst Use: Very formal presentations or events.
Tone: Friendly, approachable, light

I Don’t Believe We’ve Been Introduced

Meaning & Explanation: Professional and polite, suitable for first meetings.

Example:
“I don’t believe we’ve been introduced. I’m Nina, pleased to meet you.”

Best Use: Formal networking events.
Worst Use: Casual coffee meetups.
Tone: Polite, neutral, formal

I Don’t Think We’ve Crossed Paths

Meaning & Explanation: Similar to #5 but slightly more informal.

Example:
“I don’t think we’ve crossed paths. I’m Ethan, nice to meet you.”

Best Use: Conferences, casual professional introductions.
Worst Use: Very formal situations.
Tone: Casual, polite, approachable

It’s Nice to Finally Meet You

Meaning & Explanation: Can imply prior communication or acknowledgment of past interactions.

Example:
“It’s nice to finally meet you in person. I’m Rachel from HR.”

Best Use: Digital to in-person meetings.
Worst Use: When no prior interaction occurred.
Tone: Friendly, warm, professional

I Don’t Recall Us Meeting Before

Meaning & Explanation: Polite and tactful, avoids awkwardness if unsure.

Example:
I don’t recall us meeting before. I’m James, pleased to connect.”

Best Use: Business introductions, formal events.
Worst Use: Can sound forgetful if misused.
Tone: Respectful, careful, polite

Allow Me to Make Your Acquaintance

Meaning & Explanation: Formal and traditional, conveys elegance and courtesy.

Example:
“Allow me to make your acquaintance. I’m Eleanor, delighted to meet you.”

Best Use: Formal gatherings, high-profile events.
Worst Use: Casual settings.
Tone: Formal, polite, courteous

It Appears We Haven’t Met Yet

Meaning & Explanation: Gentle acknowledgment of unfamiliarity with a soft tone.

Example:
“It appears we haven’t met yet. I’m Kevin, happy to connect.”

Best Use: Professional meetings, networking events.
Worst Use: Informal casual meetups.
Tone: Friendly, polite, neutral

We Haven’t Had the Chance to Meet

Meaning & Explanation: Emphasizes opportunity rather than absence.

Example:
“We haven’t had the chance to meet. I’m Olivia, nice to meet you.”

Best Use: Casual professional introductions.
Worst Use: Very informal social gatherings.
Tone: Neutral, polite, professional

I Don’t Think We’ve Met Yet

Meaning & Explanation: Clear, direct, and polite.

Example:
“I don’t think we’ve met yet. I’m Daniel, pleased to meet you.”

Best Use: Professional and casual contexts.
Worst Use: Overly formal ceremonies.
Tone: Friendly, neutral, polite

It Seems We Haven’t Been Introduced

Meaning & Explanation: Suggests prior interaction may not have occurred formally.

Example:
“It seems we haven’t been introduced. I’m Grace from marketing.”

Best Use: Offices, networking events.
Worst Use: Casual social settings.
Tone: Polite, approachable, neutral

I Don’t Think We’ve Been Introduced

Meaning & Explanation: Straightforward, polite, professional.

Example:
“I don’t think we’ve been introduced. I’m Liam, happy to meet you.”

Best Use: Formal, professional, or networking events.
Worst Use: Informal friend gatherings.
Tone: Polite, professional, neutral

We Haven’t Met Before, Have We?

Meaning & Explanation: Conversational, lightly checks familiarity.

Example:
“We haven’t met before, have we? I’m Emma, nice to meet you.”

Best Use: Casual introductions, informal networking.
Worst Use: Strictly formal settings.
Tone: Friendly, conversational, polite

It’s Good to Meet You for the First Time

Meaning & Explanation: Friendly, slightly enthusiastic first introduction.

Example:
“It’s good to meet you for the first time. I’m Noah, pleased to connect.”

Best Use: Casual meetings or introductions.
Worst Use: Highly formal business environments.
Tone: Friendly, warm, approachable

I Don’t Believe Our Paths Have Crossed

Meaning & Explanation: Soft, professional, polite.

Example:
“I don’t believe our paths have crossed. I’m Ava, delighted to meet you.”

Best Use: Networking, conferences, office introductions.
Worst Use: Informal friend gatherings.
Tone: Professional, polite, neutral

Allow Me to Say Hello

Meaning & Explanation: Casual and polite greeting for first-time meetings.

Example:
“Allow me to say hello. I’m Ethan, happy to meet you.”

Best Use: Casual introductions, friendly networking.
Worst Use: Highly formal situations.
Tone: Friendly, polite, approachable

Final Thoughts

Finding the right words to introduce yourself can make a lasting impression. “We Have Not Met” is a simple yet polite phrase, but exploring alternative ways allows you to convey warmth, respect, and professionalism. Thoughtful phrasing is more than grammar-it reflects your intention, awareness, and understanding of social context. Using the right phrase can ease tension, build trust, and create a positive first impression, whether in digital communication, casual networking, or formal introductions.

Each alternative comes with its own tone and best use, allowing you to match your words to the situation. For example, phrases like “It’s a pleasure to meet you” or “Allow me to introduce myself” work well in formal contexts, while “It looks like we haven’t met yet” or “We haven’t had the chance to meet” feel friendly and approachable. Choosing the correct phrase shows you are attentive, socially aware, and capable of connecting with others thoughtfully.

Remember, introductions are not just about stating your name-they are about signaling respect, showing genuine interest, and laying the foundation for meaningful communication. The more intentional you are with your words, the more memorable your interactions become. Using polite alternatives to “We Have Not Met” empowers you to communicate with empathy, professionalism, and confidence, helping you navigate social and professional situations with ease. Embrace these options, and each introduction can become an opportunity to make genuine connections that last.

FAQs

What does “We Have Not Met” mean?

“We Have Not Met” indicates that two people haven’t been introduced yet. It’s polite and often used in professional or casual contexts to acknowledge unfamiliarity.

Is it professional to say “We Have Not Met”?

Yes, it’s professional and polite, suitable for emails, networking, and first meetings. It signals respect and willingness to connect.

Can I use it online?

Absolutely. It works well in digital communication, online meetings, and social media interactions where face-to-face meetings haven’t occurred.

When should I avoid it?

Avoid overuse in casual gatherings or when you already know the person personally, as it may feel distant or unnecessary.

What are alternatives to “We Have Not Met”?

Alternatives include “It’s a pleasure to meet you”, “I don’t think we’ve met before”, and “Allow me to introduce myself”, among others.

How do I make it warmer?

Add a friendly tone, smile, or personal acknowledgment like referencing a past interaction or shared context to make it warmer.

Can it be used in emails?

Yes, it’s ideal for professional emails, especially when reaching out to someone new in a formal or networking context.

How do I introduce myself after saying it?

Follow with your name, role, and a friendly remark to smoothly continue the conversation.

Is it suitable for networking events?

Yes, it’s perfect for networking, conferences, and professional gatherings where many people are meeting for the first time.

Does it sound formal?

It can be formal or casual depending on phrasing. Adding words like “pleasure” or “delighted” enhances formality.

What’s the tone to use?

Use a tone that is polite, warm, and approachable, reflecting professionalism without being stiff.

Can it be used in social settings?

Yes, especially in semi-formal or structured social events like clubs, workshops, or meetups.

How to avoid awkwardness?

Combine it with a smile, confident posture, and follow-up conversation about shared interests or context.

Can it imply prior remote contact?

Yes, it acknowledges prior digital or phone interaction without face-to-face introduction.

Why is it important?

It demonstrates awareness, politeness, and intent to connect, setting the stage for meaningful and professional communication.