Portuguese Phrase
Pra mim, a família vem sempre em primeiro lugar.
Meaning
This phrase is used to express that family is one's highest priority in life. The use of 'pra mim' (a contraction of 'para mim') frames the statement as a personal value or conviction. It emphasizes that when making decisions, family needs outweigh other concerns.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing personal values, explaining why you are prioritizing a family event, or sharing your life philosophy with friends and colleagues. It is a common and respected sentiment in Portuguese-speaking cultures.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Pra mima famíliavemsempreem primeiro lugar
Pra mim
A common contraction of 'para mim' used in informal spoken Portuguese to indicate a personal opinion or perspective.
Vem (Vir)
The verb 'vir' (to come) is used here in the third person singular to describe a position in a hierarchy of importance.
Em primeiro lugar
A fixed expression meaning 'in first place'. The preposition 'em' is necessary to indicate the position.
🗨In Conversation
Você vai perder a festa para visitar seus avós?
Are you going to miss the party to visit your grandparents?
Vou sim. Pra mim, a família vem sempre em primeiro lugar.
Yes, I am. For me, family always comes first.
✕Common Mistakes
Para eu, a família vem sempre em primeiro lugar.
Use 'mim' after prepositions like 'para' when it is not the subject of a following verb.
Pra mim, a família vai sempre em primeiro lugar.
While 'ir' means 'to go', the standard idiom for 'comes first' uses the verb 'vir' (to come).
↔Alternatives
A família é minha prioridade número um.
Family is my number one priority.
Eu coloco a família acima de tudo.
I put family above everything.
Cultural Tip
In many Lusophone cultures, especially in Brazil, family connections are extremely tight-knit. It is culturally expected and highly respected to prioritize family gatherings or needs over work or social hobbies, which is why this phrase is so frequently used and accepted.