Portuguese Phrase
Faz voluntariado por uma causa que te importe.
Meaning
This phrase is an informal command or suggestion, encouraging someone to engage in volunteer work. It emphasizes the importance of choosing a cause that resonates personally with the individual, making the act of volunteering more meaningful and impactful for them. The verb 'importar' means 'to matter' or 'to be important'.
When to use
This phrase is typically used when advising or motivating someone to get involved in community service, charity, or social work. It's a call to action, often heard in discussions about personal fulfillment, social responsibility, or when suggesting ways to contribute positively to society.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Fazvoluntariadoporuma causaquete importe
Faz (fazer)
'Faz' is the informal (tu) imperative form of the verb 'fazer' (to do/make). It's used to give a direct command or suggestion to a single person you address informally.
voluntariado
This is a masculine noun meaning 'volunteer work' or 'volunteering'. It refers to the act or activity of volunteering, not the person who volunteers ('o voluntário').
por
The preposition 'por' is used here to indicate the reason or motive for an action, meaning 'for' or 'on behalf of' a cause. It highlights the purpose behind the volunteering.
que te importe
This is a subordinate clause using the subjunctive mood. 'Importe' is the third-person singular present subjunctive of 'importar' (to matter/to be important), triggered by 'que' when expressing a subjective opinion or desire. 'Te' is the informal indirect object pronoun, meaning 'to you'.
🗨In Conversation
Estou procurando algo significativo para fazer no meu tempo livre.
I'm looking for something meaningful to do in my free time.
Faz voluntariado por uma causa que te importe. É muito gratificante!
Volunteer for a cause that matters to you. It's very rewarding!
✕Common Mistakes
Fazer voluntário por uma causa que te importe.
The correct noun for 'volunteer work' is 'voluntariado'. 'Voluntário' is the adjective or the person (the volunteer).
Faz voluntariado por uma causa que lhe importe.
While 'lhe' is also a pronoun for 'you', 'te' is used for informal address (tu), which matches the informal command 'Faz'. 'Lhe' would be used for formal 'você'.
Faz voluntariado para uma causa que te importe.
While 'para' can mean 'for', 'por' is generally used to express the reason, motive, or in favor of something, which fits better when talking about 'a cause'.
↔Alternatives
Ajuda uma causa que seja importante para ti.
Help a cause that is important to you.
Dedica-te a algo que te apaixone.
Dedicate yourself to something you're passionate about.
Trabalha como voluntário por algo em que acredites.
Work as a volunteer for something you believe in.
Cultural Tip
Volunteering, or 'voluntariado', is a growing concept in many Portuguese-speaking countries, often driven by community spirit, religious organizations, or environmental concerns. This phrase reflects a common sentiment that personal connection to a cause makes the effort more genuine and sustainable. The use of 'te' indicates an informal, friendly tone, common when giving advice or encouragement among peers or family.