be worth it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be worth it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that the result or outcome of an action will have value or make something meaningful, such as in the sentence: "All the hard work I've put in will be worth it when I finally receive my degree."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It would be worth it.

The New York Times

Could anyone be worth it?

The New Yorker

Wouldn't it be worth it?

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's got to be worth it".

Independent

The effort will be worth it.

The New York Times - Travel

Sometimes the wait can be worth it.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It'll be worth it@ClemsonTigers.

Huffington Post

It'll never be worth it.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be worth it", ensure the context clearly establishes what the 'it' refers to, avoiding ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid vague references. Clearly specify what the "it" refers to; otherwise, the phrase lacks clarity and impact. For example, instead of "The risk might be worth it", specify "The risk might be worth the potential reward".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be worth it" functions as a predicate expressing that something is of sufficient value or benefit to justify the effort, cost, or risk involved. Ludwig examples show its common usage in assessing whether an action or investment will have a positive outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Wiki

12%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be worth it" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey that something provides enough benefit to justify the effort, cost, or risk involved. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in a wide range of contexts, especially in news and media. While versatile, ensure clarity by specifying what 'it' refers to. Alternatives like "justify the effort" or "be a worthwhile endeavor" can add nuance. In essence, "be worth it" serves as a concise way to express a positive cost-benefit analysis, a concept frequently discussed across varied sources and situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be a worthwhile endeavor

Emphasizes the positive and valuable nature of the undertaking.

be good value

Directly addresses the worth relative to the price or effort.

justify the effort

Focuses on the action making the effort reasonable or necessary.

be beneficial enough

Highlights the positive impact required to make something worthwhile.

merit the expense

Emphasizes the cost aspect, suggesting the benefits are equal or greater than the financial burden.

repay the investment

Specifically refers to recovering invested resources, time or money, with profit or benefit.

be advantageous

Underscores the favorable position or outcome resulting from something.

be profitable

Highlights the financial gain or benefit derived from an action or investment.

give a good return

Focuses on the tangible or intangible benefits received in exchange for something.

make sense

Implies that the action or decision is logical and reasonable, given the potential outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "be worth it" in a sentence?

You can use "be worth it" to indicate that the benefits of something justify the effort, cost, or risk involved. For example, "The long journey will "be worth it" when we reach our destination".

What are some alternatives to "be worth it"?

Some alternatives include "justify the effort", "merit the expense", or "be a worthwhile endeavor" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "be worth it" in writing?

It is appropriate to use "be worth it" when you want to express that the positive aspects of a situation or action outweigh the negative ones, making it a valuable or beneficial choice. It can be useful in persuasive writing or when offering reassurance.

What's the difference between "be worth it" and "be valuable"?

"Be valuable" generally describes something that possesses inherent worth or importance. "Be worth it", on the other hand, implies a cost-benefit analysis where the positive outcome justifies the resources expended. Something can "be valuable" without "be worth it" if the effort to obtain it is too high.