French Phrase
Mes valeurs définissent qui je suis.
Meaning
The sentence means “My values define who I am.” It expresses that the principles and beliefs a person holds shape their identity and guide their actions. In French, the relative pronoun « qui » introduces the clause that identifies the subject of the definition.
When to use
Use this phrase when reflecting on personal philosophy, during a job interview when asked about what drives you, or in a conversation about personal growth. It works well in both formal and informal contexts, as long as you are speaking about your own values.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Mesvaleursdéfinissentquijesuis.
Possessive adjective « mes »
« Mes » agrees in number with the noun it modifies; it is the plural form of « mon/ma ».
Noun « valeurs » (plural)
A feminine plural noun; adjectives and verbs that refer to it must be in the plural form.
Verb « définir » – 3rd person plural
Present tense conjugation for a plural subject: « ils/elles définissent ».
Relative pronoun « qui »
Introduces a clause that refers back to the subject (here, « valeurs »). It is used when the pronoun is the subject of the subordinate clause.
Subject pronoun « je » + verb « être »
The personal pronoun « je » is followed by the present tense of « être » – « suis ».
🗨In Conversation
Mes valeurs définissent qui je suis.
My values define who I am.
C’est une belle façon de se présenter. Quelles sont tes valeurs principales ?
That’s a great way to introduce yourself. What are your main values?
✕Common Mistakes
Mes valeurs définit qui je suis.
The verb must agree with the plural subject « valeurs », so use the 3rd‑person plural form « définissent ».
Mes valeurs définissent que je suis.
When the relative pronoun refers to the subject of the main clause, keep « qui » and the verb after it; do not replace it with « que ».
Ma valeur définissent qui je suis.
If you talk about more than one value, the noun must be plural « valeurs ».
↔Alternatives
Mes principes déterminent qui je suis.
My principles determine who I am.
Ce que je crois façonne mon identité.
What I believe shapes my identity.
Mes convictions définissent ma personnalité.
My convictions define my personality.
Cultural Tip
In French culture, speaking about one’s values is often linked to authenticity and personal integrity. In professional settings, it’s common to frame your values in terms of “éthique de travail” (work ethic) or “responsabilité sociale”. Avoid overly dramatic language in casual conversation; a simple, sincere statement like this is well‑received.