it is precious

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is precious" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express the value or importance of something, often in an emotional or sentimental context. Example: "This family heirloom is not just an object; it is precious to me because it carries so many memories."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

For me, it is precious.

The New York Times - Magazine

CARMEN: I adore my pool; it is precious to me.

The New York Times - Magazine

"It is precious to all Americans and it needs to be protected".

The New York Times

It is precious to be alone with your thoughts in a public space.

The New York Times

It is precious, it is irreplaceable and it is vital to the health of British theatre.

The Guardian

That is progress, even if it is precious little consolation for Argentines as they contemplate the wreckage around them.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Maybe it's precious to me especially because of its relative asceticism.

Huffington Post

It's precious".

The New York Times

It's not – it's precious".

Independent

We all agree it's precious.

The Guardian

He loved luxury, but he never treated anything like it was precious.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "it is precious", consider the emotional weight it carries. It's best suited for situations where you want to convey a sense of deep personal value or importance.

Common error

While "it is precious" is appropriate for expressing personal sentiments, avoid using it excessively in formal or business writing. Opt for alternatives like "it is valuable" or "it is essential" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is precious" functions as a subject complement, attributing a quality of great value or importance to a subject. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. Examples in Ludwig show its use in various contexts to express personal value or wider significance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Huffington Post

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

The Guardian

2%

Vice

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is precious" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to convey a sense of value, importance, or endearment. Ludwig AI analysis shows that its primary function is as a subject complement and the communicative purpose is to highlight the significance of something, whether tangible or abstract. While generally neutral in register, it is important to consider the context and choose alternative phrases like "it is valuable" or "it is essential" for formal writing. It appears most frequently in News & Media, according to Ludwig's data.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is invaluable

Focuses on the irreplaceable nature and extreme usefulness of something.

it is priceless

Emphasizes that something's value is so high that it cannot be quantified with money.

it is highly valued

Highlights the esteem and appreciation that something receives from others.

it is treasured

Suggests that something is carefully protected and greatly appreciated.

it is cherished

Implies a deep affection and sentimental attachment to something.

it is significant

Highlights the importance or consequence of something.

it is meaningful

Focuses on the personal relevance and emotional impact of something.

it is important

States directly that something has a high degree of relevance or consequence.

it is essential

Emphasizes the necessity and indispensability of something.

it is irreplaceable

Underscores that something cannot be replaced if it is lost or damaged.

FAQs

How can I use "it is precious" in a sentence?

You can use "it is precious" to express the value or importance of something, often in an emotional or sentimental context. For example, "This family heirloom "it is precious" to me because it carries so many memories."

What can I say instead of "it is precious"?

You can use alternatives like "it is valuable", "it is dear", or "it is invaluable" depending on the context.

Is "it is precious" too sentimental for professional communication?

Yes, in many professional contexts, "it is precious" might be considered too sentimental. Opt for more formal alternatives such as "it is valuable" or "it is essential" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "it is precious" and "it is priceless"?

"It is precious" suggests something has great personal or emotional value, whereas "it is priceless" indicates something's value is so high that it cannot be quantified with money. "It is precious" focuses on sentiment, while "it is priceless" focuses on irreplaceable worth.