Portuguese Phrase
Ajudar os outros me deixa feliz.
Meaning
This phrase describes the emotional reward of altruistic behavior. It uses the verb 'deixar' to signify a transition into a state of happiness caused by the act of helping.
When to use
Use this sentence when talking about your motivations, volunteer work, or personal values. It is perfect for sharing what brings you fulfillment in social or personal contexts.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Ajudaros outrosme deixafeliz
Infinitive as Subject
The verb 'Ajudar' is used in its infinitive form to act as the subject of the sentence, similar to the gerund 'Helping' in English.
Verbo Deixar
In this context, 'deixar' means 'to make' or 'to leave someone in a state', specifically regarding emotions or conditions.
🗨In Conversation
Por que você gosta de ser voluntário?
Why do you like being a volunteer?
Porque ajudar os outros me deixa feliz.
Because helping others makes me happy.
✕Common Mistakes
Ajudar os outros me deixa felicidade.
Use the adjective 'feliz' (happy) instead of the noun 'felicidade' (happiness) to describe the resulting state.
Ajudar os outros me faz feliz.
While 'faz' is understood, 'deixa' is more common in Brazilian Portuguese to express a change in emotional state.
↔Alternatives
Fico feliz em ajudar as pessoas.
I get happy helping people.
Sinto-me bem ao ajudar o próximo.
I feel good when helping others.
Cultural Tip
In Brazil, the term 'o próximo' is frequently used instead of 'os outros' to refer to others in a charitable or empathetic sense, reflecting a strong community-oriented culture.