valuable - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
valuable Word Meanings
- having great worth or value
- useful or important
- significant; held in high regard
valuable Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
valuable Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈvæl.jʊ.bəl/
US
/ˈvæl.jə.bəl/
valuable Word Etymology
val- = worth + -able = capable of; Originated from Latin 'valere' meaning to be strong, which evolved through Old French into English. Imagine a golden treasure chest overflowing with precious gems, symbolizing worth and value.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach out, move a dusty box aside, and hold the worn letter in my hands. As I read, I adjust my grip and shift my attention, noticing the memory it carries. The weight of the moment makes me keep the page close, and I set it where I can see it. In that quiet push of choice, a sense grows that this thing is valuable beyond price.
Real Context
valuable describes something with great worth, usefulness, or significance. In everyday English you can say a valuable lesson, a valuable asset, or valuable time, emphasizing either monetary value or practical importance. The nuance ranges from concrete worth (an expensive, valuable gem) to abstract usefulness (valuable information) and to personal esteem (a valuable friend). Learners should note collocations like highly valuable, be of great value to, or prove valuable in a situation. The word often reflects long-term benefit or rarity rather than immediate price, and it can describe people, objects, or ideas depending on context.
Usage Reminders
- Use valuable for things with high worth or usefulness; pair with highly, very, or of great value; distinguish it from priceless; note it can describe people, objects, or ideas; prefer to specify the type of value when possible.
Common Misconceptions
- Valuable != expensive; value can be practical or informational, not just price.
- Avoid saying 'this person is valuable' unless describing contributions or usefulness.
- Valued means appreciated, not necessarily valuable in the sense of worth.
- Do not confuse 'valuable' with 'valuable but fragile' unless context requires.
- Valuables refers to possessions, not the adjective 'valuable'.
Thinking Differences
For English speakers, valuable often spans both monetary value and usefulness; learners should watch for collocations and context cues that shift value toward practical impact or abstract importance.
Learning Tips
- Remember that valuable can describe people, ideas, or objects.
- Pair with highly, very, or of great value to reinforce emphasis.
- Differentiate from priceless (no equal value) and valueless (having no value).
- Use context to decide whether value is monetary, practical, or emotional.
- Practice with collocations like valuable information, valuable asset, and valuable time.
- Check if the value is temporary or long-term to choose adjectives correctly.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'valuable'?
A.Ordinary
B.Temporary
C.Precious
D.Lonely
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'valuable' used in a sentence?
A.Their friendship was not valuable.
B.He broke the valuable vase by accident.
C.She found a valuable ring in the sand.
D.The old book was valuable to the collector.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is similar to 'valuable'?
A.Cheap
B.Worthless
C.Precious
D.Common
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'valuable'?
A.Important
B.Useful
C.Insignificant
D.Beneficial
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would someone use the word 'valuable'?
A.Discussing a mundane task
B.Describing a broken toy
C.Sharing a boring story
D.Talking about a family heirloom
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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