be worth

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be worth" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used when talking about something having value or being beneficial. For example, "This skill will be worth its weight in gold in the job market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'll be worth nothing".

The New York Times

It would be worth it.

The New York Times

Could anyone be worth it?

The New Yorker

It won't be worth saving.

The New Yorker

Wouldn't it be worth it?

Independent

That must be worth having.

The Economist

Could be worth around £500m.

Independent

It may be worth it.

The New York Times

Would it be worth it?

The New York Times

"It might be worth it.

The New Yorker

That might be worth watching.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When assessing if something is "be worth" doing, consider both the potential benefits and the associated costs or efforts. Quantify the value whenever possible for a more persuasive argument.

Common error

Avoid using "worth" as a noun without a clear reference point. Saying something "has worth" is vague. Instead, specify what it's worth, such as "The painting is worth millions."

How to use

Learn how to use "be worth" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "be worth" is to act as a linking verb connecting a subject to a predicate adjective that describes its value or benefit. Ludwig confirms that this is a standard usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Wiki

19%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be worth" is a versatile and common expression used to indicate the value, benefit, or deservingness of something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts. It functions as a linking verb, connecting a subject to an adjective that describes its value. While suitable for both formal and informal settings, precision in valuation is crucial in technical contexts. Common errors include vague noun usage. Ludwig's examples highlight its frequency in news media, wikis, and scientific publications, making it essential to understand its proper application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have value

Focuses on the inherent value or importance of something.

be deserving of

Highlights the idea that something merits a particular outcome or recognition.

merit consideration

Emphasizes that something should be given attention or thought.

be beneficial

Stresses the advantages or positive effects of something.

be advantageous

Similar to "be beneficial" but suggests a strategic advantage.

hold importance

Focuses on the significance or relevance of something.

possess merit

Highlights the quality of being good or deserving praise.

be priced at

Directly relates to the monetary value of something.

represent value

Indicates that something embodies or exemplifies value.

warrant attention

Suggests that something justifies or calls for attention.

FAQs

How to use "be worth" in a sentence?

Use "be worth" to indicate the value, benefit, or deservingness of something. For example, "This investment will "be worth" the risk" or "The experience was "be worth" the effort".

What can I say instead of "be worth"?

You can use alternatives like "have value", "be deserving of", or "merit consideration" depending on the specific context.

Which is correct, "be worth it" or "worth it"?

"Be worth it" is a complete phrase, while "worth it" is often used as a shortened, more informal version. Both are generally acceptable, but "be worth it" is more grammatically complete and suitable for formal writing.

What's the difference between "be worth" and "be worthy of"?

"Be worth" implies a specific value or benefit, while "be worthy of" suggests deservingness or suitability. For example, "The antique is "be worth" a fortune" (value) versus "The candidate is "be worthy of" the award" (deservingness).