What does it mean word for word?
The word Ámate is a combination of the imperative verb ama (love) and the reflexive pronoun te (yourself).
Which one should you use?
The form Ámate a ti mismo primero is an informal singular version used for a friend or peer. For a formal singular situation, such as speaking to a stranger or someone in a position of respect, use Ámese a usted mismo primero.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some Latin American countries, the phrase Quererse uno mismo antes que nada is used.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase a ti mismo is used to emphasize the reflexive nature of the action specifically for a male subject. To direct the phrase to a female subject, change mismo to misma to get Ámate a ti misma primero. When addressing a group of people, the verb changes to Ámense and the reflexive pronoun phrase becomes a ustedes mismos or a sí mismos, resulting in Ámense a sí mismos primero.
Did you know?
- In some Spanish-speaking cultures, focusing too much on Ámate a ti mismo can be seen as egoísmo or selfishness, as collectivism is often prioritized over individualism.
- In many Spanish-speaking countries, people might use the verb querer instead of amar to express this idea. While amar sounds deeply romantic or spiritual, quererse is a very common way to talk about self-esteem and affection.
- The word mismo descends from a combination of the Latin suffix -met and ipsimus, which together meant 'the very same'.
Examples in context
- Ámate a ti mismo primero para ser feliz.Love yourself first to be happy.
- No puedes cuidar a otros si no te amas. Ámate a ti mismo primero.You cannot take care of others if you don't love yourself. Love yourself first.
Example conversation
María is giving Alejandro some emotional advice.
- AlejandroMe siento muy cansado de ayudar siempre a todo el mundo.I feel very tired of always helping everyone.
- MaríaAlejandro, ámate a ti mismo primero.Alejandro, love yourself first.
- AlejandroTienes razón, necesito un descanso.You are right, I need a rest.
- MaríaExacto, tu bienestar es lo más importante.Exactly, your well-being is the most important thing.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, mismo, primero, ti, CC BY-SA 4.0.
