French Phrase
Je fais passer ma santé et mon bien-être avant tout.
Meaning
This phrase expresses the active decision to make one's physical and mental health the highest priority. It uses the causative construction 'faire passer' to indicate that these elements are being moved to the front of all other concerns. It conveys a strong sense of self-care and personal boundary-setting.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing lifestyle changes, explaining why you are declining extra work, or talking about your personal values. It is appropriate in both casual conversations with friends and more formal discussions about work-life balance.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Jefais passerma santéetmon bien-êtreavant tout
Faire passer
A causative construction used here to mean 'to prioritize' or 'to put first.'
Possessive Adjectives
'Ma' is used for the feminine 'santé' while 'mon' is used for the masculine 'bien-être'.
Avant tout
An idiomatic expression meaning 'above all' or 'before everything else'.
🗨In Conversation
Tu veux rester plus tard pour finir ce projet ?
Do you want to stay later to finish this project?
Non, je rentre me reposer. Je fais passer ma santé et mon bien-être avant tout.
No, I am going home to rest. I prioritize my health and well-being above all else.
✕Common Mistakes
Je passe ma santé avant tout.
You must use the causative 'faire passer' to express the act of prioritizing one thing over another.
Je fais passer ma santé et mon bien-être devant tout.
Use 'avant tout' for priority in time or importance; 'devant' typically refers to physical position.
↔Alternatives
Ma santé est ma priorité.
My health is my priority.
Je privilégie mon bien-être.
I favor my well-being.
Je mets ma santé en premier.
I put my health first.
Cultural Tip
In modern French culture, there is a significant emphasis on 'le bien-être' and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Openly stating that you prioritize your health is generally respected and seen as a sign of self-awareness and maturity.