worth - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
worth Word Meanings
- having value or merit
- the amount something is valued at
- importance or significance
worth Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
worth Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/wɜːθ/
US
/wɜrθ/
worth Word Etymology
worth = 'worth' (root) from Old English 'weorth' meaning 'value'; Middle English influenced by Latin 'valor'; Imagine a treasure chest overflowing with gold as a symbol of high worth.
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 shift a small object on the desk and feel my mind tilt toward what feels worth keeping. I push away distractions and pull my focus toward effort and payoff, sensing the weight of the choice changing. I adjust my pace, set priorities, and weigh which actions are worth the time. As I settle, the sense of worth settles too, not from rules, but from what I decide matters.
Real Context
Worth is a versatile concept in English, used as both adjective and noun. As an adjective, it describes something with value, merit, or deserving attention; for example, 'This book is worth reading' or 'The effort was worth it.' As a noun, it refers to the value or price of something, or to its importance or significance. The three senses you listed—having value or merit, the amount something is valued at, and importance or significance—connect to judging worth in different ways. The word has roots in Old English weorth, with later Latin influence; it naturally links to phrases like 'be worth it' or 'worth considering.' Understanding these distinctions helps learners choose the right form and collocation in everyday speech.
Usage Reminders
- Be careful with be worth + gerund; use it for value or advisability. Distinguish value from price; use 'worth' for significance too. Don’t confuse with 'worthy'. Use 'worth it' for a worthwhile result. Use 'worthwhile' to describe something beneficial. When talking money, pair with a number to show value.
Common Misconceptions
- Worth equals price in all cases.
- Something can be worth money even if it is not good.
- Worth only relates to money, not to importance.
- Be worth it always means easy or guaranteed success.
- Worthy and worth are interchangeable.
Thinking Differences
Worth in English blends value, price, and significance, so learners must infer meaning from context. Mistakes include assuming price equals value, or treating 'worth' as a synonym of 'worthy'. Focus on be worth + gerund/it, and on phrases like worth considering and worthwhile.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three core senses: value/merit, monetary worth, and importance.
- Practice be worth + gerund and be worth it in different contexts.
- Distinguish value from price; not all 'worth' relates to money.
- Keep-worthy vs worthy: remember the adjective form is different.
- Use common collocations: worth it, worth considering, worthwhile.
- When discussing money, attach a number to show value.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'worth'?
A.Carrot
B.Value
C.Jump
D.Computer
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'worth' correctly?
A.She found a dog worth when she went shopping.
B.The antique vase is worth a lot of money.
C.The bookshelf is worth running in the park.
D.He worth to the store to buy some milk.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'worth'?
A.Elephant
B.Price
C.Read
D.Play
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'worth'?
A.Hot
B.Sad
C.Valueless
D.Fly
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario of 'worth'?
A.Deciding whether a purchase is worth the price.
B.Talking about the weather with a friend.
C.Running a marathon for charity.
D.Watching a movie at home.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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