German Phrase
Meine Werte machen mich aus.
Meaning
This phrase signifies that a person's core beliefs and ethical principles are what constitute their identity. It uses the separable verb 'ausmachen' to express that these values are the essential components of who the individual is.
When to use
This is a profound statement used in personal introductions, job interviews, or deep philosophical conversations. It is appropriate when explaining your motivations or why you hold certain boundaries.
✦Grammar Breakdown
MeineWertemachenmichaus
Separable Verb (ausmachen)
The verb 'ausmachen' is separable. In a simple declarative sentence, the base 'machen' stays in the second position, while the prefix 'aus' goes to the end.
Accusative Object (mich)
'Mich' is the accusative form of 'ich'. It is used here because it is the direct object of the action 'ausmachen'.
🗨In Conversation
Warum hast du das Angebot abgelehnt?
Why did you turn down the offer?
Es entsprach nicht meinen Prinzipien. Meine Werte machen mich aus.
It didn't align with my principles. My values define me.
✕Common Mistakes
Meine Werte machen mich.
Without the prefix 'aus', the sentence simply means 'My values make me', which is incomplete and lacks the meaning of 'defining' someone.
Meine Werte ausmachen mich.
German is a verb-second language; for separable verbs like 'ausmachen', the prefix must move to the very end of the clause.
↔Alternatives
Ich definiere mich über meine Werte.
I define myself through my values.
Meine Prinzipien sind mir wichtig.
My principles are important to me.
Cultural Tip
In Germany, 'Authentizität' (authenticity) and 'Zuverlässigkeit' (reliability) are highly regarded traits. Declaring that your values define you suggests you are a person of integrity who acts according to a fixed moral compass, which is a respected quality in both social and professional circles.