an worthwhile

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an worthwhile" is not correct in written English.
The correct form is "a worthwhile," as "worthwhile" begins with a consonant sound. Example: "Volunteering at the shelter is a worthwhile experience that can change lives."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The Weekly often takes you the long way around the world, but we try to ensure you find it an worthwhile journey.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Grade-A trolling for a worthwhile reason.

HuffPost

At $70, it's an investment, but a worthwhile one.

The New York Times

Not an easy watch, but a worthwhile film.

The Guardian

A big ask, but a worthwhile one.

The Guardian - Opinion

That of a worthwhile nobody or a morally defective artist?

The Guardian

But can a YA novel yield a worthwhile film?

BBC

A local attorney can be a worthwhile investment.

WikiHow

A worthwhile program.

Columbia University

It's a worthwhile lesson.

The New Yorker

What a worthwhile production.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use "a worthwhile" instead of "an worthwhile". The article 'a' is used before words that begin with a consonant sound.

Common error

Avoid using "an" before words that begin with a consonant sound. This error commonly occurs when writers don't consider the sound of the word following the article.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an worthwhile" is intended to function as a determiner + adjective, modifying a noun. However, as Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically incorrect because "an" is used before vowel sounds, and "worthwhile" begins with a consonant sound.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Academia

22%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the intention behind the phrase "an worthwhile" is clear—to describe something as valuable or beneficial—it is grammatically incorrect. The correct phrasing is "a worthwhile". Ludwig AI identifies this error, noting the proper use of articles based on the following word's sound. Although examples exist in various contexts like News & Media and Academia, adhering to correct grammar is crucial for clear and effective communication. Remember to use "a" before consonant sounds and "an" before vowel sounds to avoid this common mistake. Consider using synonyms like "a valuable" or "a beneficial" alternative for enhanced clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a worthwhile

Corrects the grammatical error by using the appropriate article 'a' before 'worthwhile'.

a valuable

Replaces 'worthwhile' with 'valuable' while maintaining the positive connotation and grammatical correctness.

a beneficial

Similar to 'valuable', 'beneficial' suggests a positive outcome or advantage.

a useful

Focuses on the utility or practical value of something.

a rewarding

Emphasizes the satisfying or fulfilling aspect of something.

a profitable

Highlights the financial or material gain associated with something.

a productive

Stresses the efficiency and output of something.

a significant

Indicates the importance or impact of something.

a meaningful

Focuses on the deeper purpose or value of something.

a considerable

Emphasizes the size or amount of something, implying value.

FAQs

What's the correct way to say "worthwhile"?

The grammatically correct phrase is "a worthwhile", not "an worthwhile". The article "a" is used before words starting with a consonant sound.

Is "an worthwhile" ever correct?

No, "an worthwhile" is not correct in standard English. The correct form is "a worthwhile", as 'worthwhile' begins with a consonant sound.

What can I use instead of "a worthwhile"?

Alternatives include "a valuable", "a beneficial", or "a useful" depending on the context.

How to avoid mistakes with articles like "a" and "an"?

Pay attention to the sound at the beginning of the word following the article. Use "an" before vowel sounds (e.g., an apple) and "a" before consonant sounds (e.g., a car).