maintain principles

[meɪnˈteɪn ˈprɪnsəpəlz]
verb phrase
manter princípios
1. to keep or preserve one's moral, ethical, or foundational beliefs despite pressure or challenges
She decided to maintain principles even when offered a lucrative but unethical business deal.
Ela decidiu manter princípios mesmo quando lhe ofereceram um negócio lucrativo, mas antiético.
2. to adhere to established rules, standards, or values in conduct or operations
The organization works hard to maintain principles of transparency and accountability.
A organização trabalha arduamente para manter princípios de transparência e responsabilidade.
3. to uphold fundamental beliefs or moral standards consistently
Good leaders maintain principles regardless of circumstances.
Bons líderes mantêm princípios independentemente das circunstâncias.
This phrase is highly valued in both American and Brazilian cultures as a marker of personal integrity and character. In Brazilian business culture, 'manter princípios' is often emphasized in corporate ethics training. In the USA, 'maintaining principles' reflects individualistic values and moral strength. The expression carries positive connotations in both cultures and is frequently used in political discourse, business ethics, and personal development contexts.
NYC Slang
stick to your guns / keep it real
Synonyms / Sinônimos
uphold valuesstick to beliefshonor principlesstand firmpreserve standardskeep faith
Antonyms / Antônimos
compromise principlesabandon valuesbetray beliefsdeviate from standardssacrifice integrity

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
manter princípios
Most common form across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
manter os princípios
Often includes definite article
São Paulo
manter princípios / preservar princípios
Business and formal contexts often use 'preservar' as alternative
Portugal
manter os princípios
Definite article more frequently used; similar usage to Brazil

Related Words

integrityethicsvaluesmoralitystandardsconvictioncommitmentconsistency

Related Idioms & Phrases

stand by one's principles
hold firm to one's values
keep one's integrity intact
stand on principle
not compromise one's ideals
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