Language Research

worth · adjective

/wɜːθ/Full view

Word family

Nouns: worth

Adjectives: worth, worthless, worthwhile, worthy

be worth

B1 to have a particular value in money

Dictionary example:

Our house is worth about £400 000.

be worth sth/doing sth

B1 to be important or interesting enough to receive a particular action or to cause you to do something

Dictionary examples:

When you're in Reykjavik, the National Museum is worth a visit.

His latest book is definitely worth reading.

Learner example:

It's really worth visiting. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Italian)

be worth it

B1 to be useful or enjoyable despite needing a lot of effort

Dictionary examples:

It was a long climb to the top of the hill, but it was worth it for the view.

Don't tire yourself out, Geri, it's really not worth it.

Forget him, love - he's just not worth it.

Learner example:

There were a lot of hills in the park, [and] it was very tiring to go up riding a bike, but when you got to the top, and stared at the amazing view, it was worth it. (Preliminary English Test; B1; Spanish)

be worth your while

C2 If it is worth your while doing something, it is useful or enjoyable to do it.

Dictionary examples:

It's worth your while taking out travel insurance before you travel.

It isn't worth my while going all that way just for one day.

Learner example:

It would be worth your while to visit the country's capital Havana, and don't forget to go into the Folklore Museum and Library, the War Museum and the Archeological [Museum]. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)