intrinsically worthwhile

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intrinsically worthwhile" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has inherent value or merit, regardless of external factors or opinions. Example: "The pursuit of knowledge is intrinsically worthwhile, as it enriches our understanding of the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Whereas for me life is intrinsically worthwhile.

The Guardian

It is intrinsically worthwhile writing a story, it is intrinsically worthwhile writing a poem.

Independent

To a Sim, there is nothing intrinsically worthwhile about romance, for instance.

The New York Times - Tech

It is not intrinsically worthwhile filling in forms or answering multiple-choice questions".

Independent

Perhaps, but can't children be encouraged to do things because they are intrinsically worthwhile, rather than because of fear of parental disapproval?

The Guardian - Opinion

What I envisioned as a 12-13 year old –my mission to help people know they were intrinsically worthwhile and thus enabling them to be happy —was put to the test and I failed.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

But ultimately, it is the belief that trying to find out what is really happening is something intrinsically very worthwhile.

The New York Times

Our knowledge on the epigenetic status and dynamics of epigenetic processes regulating the SLC6A3 and the SLC6A4 is very limited due to significant technological challenges; therefore, systematic identification of possible targets amenable to epigenetic modifications by computational means intrinsically is worthwhile.

Plosone

Instrumentalist answers to this question portray criminal law as an efficient technique that helps us achieve worthwhile ends; non-instrumentalist answers portray it as an intrinsically appropriate response to certain kinds of wrongful conduct (§4).

SEP

Is life intrinsically valuable?

Encyclopedia Britannica

Crowds are intrinsically dangerous.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intrinsically worthwhile" to emphasize that the value of something is inherent and doesn't depend on external rewards or consequences. For example, "creative expression can be intrinsically worthwhile, even if it doesn't lead to fame or fortune."

Common error

Avoid using "intrinsically worthwhile" when the value is actually extrinsic or dependent on external factors. Don't say, "Attending this networking event is intrinsically worthwhile" if the sole benefit is making contacts for career advancement; instead, acknowledge that its worth depends on the potential outcomes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intrinsically worthwhile" functions as an adjective phrase, typically used to describe nouns or activities that possess inherent value or merit. It emphasizes that the worth is not dependent on external factors or consequences. This aligns with examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "intrinsically worthwhile" is used to describe something that possesses inherent value or merit, independent of external factors. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While fairly uncommon, its use spans across News & Media and Science, indicating a formal and considered tone. When seeking alternatives, consider phrases like "inherently valuable" or "valuable in itself". Remember to use "intrinsically worthwhile" when you want to stress that the value comes from within, not from any external reward or consequence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inherently valuable

Focuses on the inherent quality of being valuable, similar to "intrinsically worthwhile".

intrinsically meaningful

Replaces 'worthwhile' with 'meaningful' to denote having deep significance or purpose.

valuable in itself

Highlights that the value comes from within, not from external factors.

possessing inherent value

Highlights that value exists naturally or permanently.

worth pursuing for its own sake

Emphasizes that the pursuit is justified by the inherent worth.

worthwhile in its own right

Emphasizes that the worth exists independently.

having intrinsic merit

Uses the term "merit" to denote the inherent quality of deserving praise or value.

valuable by nature

Highlights the natural value of something.

essentially significant

Changes 'worthwhile' to 'significant' to indicate importance or consequence.

fundamentally precious

Stresses the fundamental and precious nature of something.

FAQs

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

Use "intrinsically worthwhile" to describe something that has value in and of itself, regardless of any external benefits. For example, "Helping others can be an "intrinsically rewarding" experience."

What's a simple way to define "intrinsically worthwhile"?

It means something is valuable for its own sake, not just as a means to an end. It possesses an inherent worth, making it "inherently valuable".

Are there situations where "intrinsically worthwhile" might not be the best phrase to use?

Yes, if the value is primarily external or conditional, other phrases may be more accurate. If something is only worthwhile because of the results it produces, consider using "instrumentally useful" or "beneficial in the long run" instead.

What's the difference between "intrinsically worthwhile" and "personally fulfilling"?

"Intrinsically worthwhile" suggests an inherent value, while "personally fulfilling" implies that the value is derived from individual satisfaction. An activity can be intrinsically worthwhile, even if it's not personally enjoyable, and vice versa.