a worthwhile play

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a worthwhile play" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a theatrical performance that is valuable or deserving of attention, often in terms of its quality or impact. Example: "After watching the performance, I can confidently say it was a worthwhile play that left a lasting impression on the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"It's what you think of as a classic play, a worthwhile play, and you bring it back for new audiences to enjoy".

The New York Times

An enthusiastic golfer, hiker and rollerblader, Gerry was a witty raconteur and writer who loved a good political debate, never missed a worthwhile play and was equally at home discussing Russian Constructivism or the finer points of estate law.

The New York Times

What I thought was going to be a discussion about the technical challenges afforded by turning a classic film into a worthwhile play, was actually going to be a typical Today programme bunfight.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"Venus in Fur" is an entertaining, worthwhile play on its own.

The New York Times

"But it is also his function, I think, to recognize worthwhile plays," a species of art that he considered rare and precious.

The New York Times - Arts

But the other's a 33, and maybe now he's a 28, so maybe it's worthwhile playing zone".

The New York Times - Sports

Whatever the designer's intent, they are a haunting presence in a worthwhile and fascinating play.

The New York Times

("Like comparing deranged delusional paranoid Beck with emphatic Olbermann," grumbled another respondent).However, I think it's a worthwhile parallel to play with.

The Economist

Regardless, it's a worthwhile game to play and is definitely worth the risk.

Huffington Post

It's actually part of a worthwhile collection of short plays, "Romania.

The New York Times

Biogas plays a worthwhile role as a renewable, storable energy source.

Energy, Sustainability and Society

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a worthwhile play" to signal a production that offers a valuable experience, whether through entertainment, education, or emotional resonance.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that a play is "a worthwhile play" without providing any supporting evidence or specific examples. This can come across as vague and unconvincing. Offer concrete reasons why you found the play to be valuable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a worthwhile play" functions as an adjective phrase modifying the noun "play". It serves to attribute a quality of value or merit to a specific theatrical production. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes a performance that is valuable or deserving of attention.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a worthwhile play" is a phrase used to describe a theatrical production that offers value and merit. As Ludwig AI's analysis confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and functions as an adjective modifying the noun "play". It is primarily used in News & Media contexts to express approval or recommendation. To enhance your writing, be specific about what makes the play worthwhile, and avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "a valuable theatrical production" or "an enriching dramatic experience" can offer nuanced expressions of the play's qualities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a valuable theatrical production

Replaces "worthwhile" with "valuable" and adds "theatrical production" for emphasis on the medium.

an enriching dramatic experience

Focuses on the experience the play offers, replacing "worthwhile" with "enriching".

a rewarding stage performance

Highlights the positive emotional return from seeing the play.

an important contribution to theater

Emphasizes the play's significance in the broader theatrical landscape.

a meaningful piece of drama

Highlights the depth and substance of the play's content.

a significant theatrical work

Focuses on the play's impact and importance.

an insightful stage presentation

Highlights the play's ability to offer new understanding.

a compelling theatrical narrative

Emphasizes the captivating nature of the play's story.

a memorable dramatic achievement

Focuses on the lasting impression the play makes and its artistic merit.

a thought-provoking play

Highlights the play's ability to stimulate contemplation.

FAQs

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

You can use "a worthwhile play" to describe a theatrical production that provides a valuable or rewarding experience. For example: "Attending that performance was truly seeing "a worthwhile play", leaving me with profound thoughts."

What are some alternatives to saying "a worthwhile play"?

Alternatives include "a valuable theatrical production", "an enriching dramatic experience", or "a rewarding stage performance", depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

What qualities make a play "a worthwhile play"?

A play might be considered "a worthwhile play" if it offers compelling storytelling, strong performances, thought-provoking themes, or leaves a lasting impact on the audience. It often balances entertainment with deeper meaning or emotional resonance.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "a worthwhile play"?

This phrase is suitable for reviews, discussions about theater, or recommending plays to others. It conveys a positive assessment and suggests that the play offers some form of significant value.