Portuguese Phrase
Meu princípio básico é a empatia.
Meaning
This phrase identifies empathy as the core value or foundational rule that guides a person's life and decisions. It highlights the importance of understanding and sharing the feelings of others as a primary motivator.
When to use
Use this phrase in serious discussions about personal values, during job interviews when asked about your work philosophy, or in deep conversations with friends about ethics.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Meuprincípiobásicoéaempatia
Possessive Pronouns
'Meu' is the masculine singular possessive pronoun, which must agree with 'princípio'.
The Verb Ser
The verb 'é' (from 'ser') is used here because it describes a permanent characteristic or a defining identity.
🗨In Conversation
Qual é o valor que guia seu trabalho?
What is the value that guides your work?
Meu princípio básico é a empatia.
My basic principle is empathy.
✕Common Mistakes
Meu princípio básico é empatia.
In Portuguese, abstract nouns like 'empatia' usually require the definite article 'a' when used in this structure.
Meu princípio básico ser a empatia.
Ensure the verb 'ser' is conjugated to 'é' to match the singular subject 'princípio'.
↔Alternatives
A empatia é minha prioridade.
Empathy is my priority.
Eu ajo sempre com empatia.
I always act with empathy.
Cultural Tip
In many Lusophone cultures, particularly in Brazil, 'empatia' and 'calor humano' (human warmth) are highly regarded social traits. Expressing this as a core principle signals that you value interpersonal connections and social harmony.