an invaluable tool

USAGE SUMMARY

"an invaluable tool" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe something as an incredibly valuable resource. For example: "This app has been an invaluable tool in helping me budget my finances."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is an invaluable tool.

The New York Times

DNA can be an invaluable tool.

The Guardian - Opinion

"It's been an invaluable tool," he said.

The New York Times

For this reason, play is an invaluable tool for communication.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This information is an invaluable tool to police officials.

The New York Times

For sales and business development, this is an invaluable tool.

Harvard Business Review

DNA forensics is an invaluable tool for law enforcement.

The New York Times

be an invaluable tool for monitoring and guiding cancer treatment.

Harvard University

Systematic review is an invaluable tool for the practicing clinician.

Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing

This will become an invaluable tool for all concerned with the wellbeing of the natural world".

The Guardian

"This method would be an invaluable tool for conservation biology," says Arnaud Lyet of WWF.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an invaluable tool", ensure that the context clearly demonstrates the high level of importance or usefulness of the tool being described. Avoid using it for items of minor or trivial significance.

Common error

Avoid using "an invaluable tool" to describe something that is merely helpful or convenient. Reserve it for situations where the tool provides a critical advantage or benefit.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an invaluable tool" functions as a noun phrase, where "invaluable" is an adjective modifying the noun "tool". It serves to describe and emphasize the high worth and importance of the tool in question, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

40%

News & Media

38%

Formal & Business

22%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an invaluable tool" is a phrase used to emphasize the critical importance and significant benefits of a particular instrument, method, or resource. As noted by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including science, news media, and formal business settings. While applicable in both formal and neutral contexts, it is best reserved for situations where the tool provides a crucial advantage. Consider alternatives like "an indispensable asset" or "a priceless resource" depending on the nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an indispensable asset

Focuses on the necessity and importance of the tool.

a priceless resource

Highlights the extremely high value and irreplaceable nature of the tool.

an essential instrument

Emphasizes the necessity of the tool for a specific purpose.

a critical component

Stresses the importance of the tool as a part of a larger system.

a vital asset

Highlights the importance of the tool for achieving success or maintaining something.

an important resource

Emphasizes the significance and helpfulness of the tool.

an extremely useful instrument

Focuses on how helpful and practical the tool is.

an immeasurably helpful device

Highlights the extreme usefulness of the tool.

a significant advantage

Highlights the benefits and positive impact provided by the tool.

a great help

Simple and direct way to state its helpfulness.

FAQs

How can I use "an invaluable tool" in a sentence?

You can use "an invaluable tool" to describe something that provides a critical advantage or benefit. For example, "Data analysis is "an invaluable tool" for understanding customer behavior".

What are some alternatives to "an invaluable tool"?

Alternatives include "an indispensable asset", "a priceless resource", or "an essential instrument" depending on the specific context.

What makes something qualify as "an invaluable tool"?

To qualify as "an invaluable tool", the item or method should offer significant benefits, solve critical problems, or provide unique advantages that are difficult to replicate through other means.

Is it appropriate to use "an invaluable tool" in informal writing?

While "an invaluable tool" is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, it might sound slightly elevated in very informal settings. In such cases, consider using simpler alternatives like "a great help".