Italian Phrase
I valori di famiglia contano per me.
Meaning
This phrase expresses that principles and traditions related to the family unit are a priority in one's life. The verb 'contare' is used here to signify importance or weight, rather than literal counting.
When to use
Use this phrase in serious conversations about your personal beliefs, lifestyle choices, or when explaining why you prioritize family time. It is appropriate for both formal and informal settings when discussing core values.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ivaloridifamigliacontanoperme
I valori
'I' is the masculine plural definite article, and 'valori' is the plural of 'valore' (value).
Contano
This is the third-person plural present tense of the verb 'contare' (to count/matter).
Per me
This construction uses the preposition 'per' (for) with the stressed pronoun 'me' to indicate personal significance.
🗨In Conversation
Perché preferisci restare vicino a casa?
Why do you prefer to stay close to home?
I valori di famiglia contano per me.
Family values matter to me.
✕Common Mistakes
I valori di famiglia conta per me.
The verb 'contare' must be conjugated in the third-person plural 'contano' to agree with the plural subject 'i valori'.
I valori di famiglia contano a me.
While 'a me' is used with verbs like 'piacere', 'contare' (meaning to matter) is followed by the preposition 'per' when indicating the person affected.
↔Alternatives
La famiglia è importante per me.
Family is important to me.
Tengo molto ai valori familiari.
I care a lot about family values.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, the concept of 'famiglia' is central to the culture and often extends to a large network of relatives. Expressing that family values are important is a common way to signal reliability and a shared cultural understanding of loyalty and support.