a worthwhile

USAGE SUMMARY

"a worthwhile" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the phrase when discussing something that is useful or beneficial. For example, "Going to the library was a worthwhile use of my time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a worthwhile lesson.

The New Yorker

What a worthwhile production.

The New York Times

It's a worthwhile gamble.

The Guardian - Film

This is a worthwhile debate to have.

The New Yorker

That would be a worthwhile tradeoff.

The New York Times

A worthwhile trade-off, he said.

The New York Times - Tech

"The Master Switch" is a worthwhile read.

The Economist

This is, of course, a worthwhile message.

The New Yorker

It was a worthwhile trade-off.

The New York Times

But it could be a worthwhile investment.

The Economist

But are they a worthwhile investment?

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a worthwhile", ensure the context clearly indicates what makes the subject valuable. For instance, instead of saying "It was a worthwhile trip", specify what made it so, such as "It was a worthwhile trip because we gained valuable insights into the local culture".

Common error

Avoid using "a worthwhile" as a generic positive descriptor. Instead, provide specific details about why something is worthwhile to add depth and credibility to your writing. Do not assume that the reader will understand what is worthwhile, make it clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a worthwhile" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that it is valuable, beneficial, or rewarding. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically sound and used in written English. Examples in Ludwig illustrate its function in describing actions, investments, or qualities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a worthwhile" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjectival phrase that expresses positive evaluation or endorsement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, business, and general discourse. It communicates that something offers value or benefit, making it worth the investment of time, effort, or resources. While versatile, it is crucial to provide specific details about why something is worthwhile to enhance clarity and credibility. Related alternatives include ""a valuable"", ""a beneficial"", and ""a rewarding"", each with slightly different nuances. Overall, "a worthwhile" is a valuable tool for expressing positive assessment in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valuable

Emphasizes the monetary or practical value of something, shifting the focus from general benefit to tangible worth.

a beneficial

Highlights the positive impact or advantage something provides, specifically focusing on the resulting benefit.

a rewarding

Focuses on the satisfaction or positive feelings derived from an experience, rather than its objective value.

a helpful

Emphasizes the assistance or support provided by something, focusing on its utility.

a profitable

Suggests a financial gain or advantage, narrowing the scope to monetary benefits.

an advantageous

Highlights the favorable or opportune nature of something, suggesting a strategic benefit.

a meaningful

Highlights the significance or importance of something, emphasizing its deeper value.

a fruitful

Suggests productivity or positive results, often used in the context of efforts or endeavors.

a significant

Emphasizes the importance or impact of something, suggesting a notable effect or outcome.

a considerable

Indicates a notable or substantial amount of effort or consideration was made.

FAQs

How can I use "a worthwhile" in a sentence?

You can use "a worthwhile" to describe something that provides benefit, value, or positive results. For example, "Volunteering at the local shelter is "a worthwhile" cause" or "Investing in renewable energy is "a worthwhile" endeavor".

What are some alternatives to "a worthwhile"?

Some alternatives to "a worthwhile" include "a valuable", "a beneficial", "a rewarding", or "a helpful", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "a worthwhile"?

While "a worthwhile" is generally appropriate, it's best suited for situations where the value or benefit is clear and justifiable. Consider whether there's a more specific adjective that better captures the nature of the value being described. In some cases, phrases that explicitly indicate value like "a valuable" can be better suited.

What's the difference between "a worthwhile" and "a worthy"?

"A worthwhile" generally refers to something that provides tangible benefits or value, whereas "a worthy" typically describes something deserving of respect or admiration. For example, donating to charity is "a worthwhile" activity because it helps others, and the charity itself is "a worthy" cause.