It is Worthy and It is Worth It: Definition and Proper Usage Explained

When it comes to the English language, the words ‘worth’ and ‘worthy’ are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings.

If you’re describing a person or thing that is deserving of recognition or praise, you would use the phrase ‘it is worthy’. On the other hand, if you’re describing an activity or object that is valuable enough to justify the effort or cost required to obtain it, you would use the phrase ‘it is worth it’.

“It is worthy” is typically used to describe something that has value or importance. For example, you might say “this book is worthy of a Pulitzer Prize” or “this person is worthy of respect.” In these cases, you’re emphasizing the inherent value or worth of the thing or person being discussed.

On the other hand, “it is worth it” is used to describe something that is worth the effort or cost required to obtain it. For example, you might say “this concert is expensive, but it’s worth it” or “I had to study for hours, but it was worth it to pass the exam.” In these cases, you’re emphasizing the benefits or rewards that come from investing time, money, or effort into something.

There are instances where they can be used interchangeably. For example, you might say that a particular book is both worthy of a literary award and worth the time it takes to read it.

However, sing these phrases interchangeably can sometimes lead to confusion and miscommunication. For example, saying “The trip was expensive, but it was worthy” could be misinterpreted as meaning that the trip was deserving of recognition or praise, rather than being worth the cost.

Defining ‘It Is Worth It’

When deciding whether to pursue a particular endeavor, you may find yourself asking, “Is it worth it?” This phrase is commonly used to assess the value of an action or outcome, particularly in terms of the effort or cost involved.

“Worth” is classified as an adjective and used as one, although it also acts differently from all of the adjectives. In this particular phrase, “worth” is used as an adjective but acts as a preposition. Therefore, it is normally followed by a noun, a pronoun, or a gerund. For example, “it’s worth a try” or “it’s worth the price.”

Using “worthy” in place of “worth” changes the meaning of the phrase. “Worthy” means deserving of respect or attention, while “worth” refers to value or usefulness. Therefore, saying “it is worthy” does not convey the same idea as “it is worth it.”

When considering whether something is worth it, you may be weighing the effort or cost involved against the potential reward or outcome. You may ask yourself, “Is the effort worth the reward?” or “Is the cost worth the benefit?” In this way, the phrase “it is worth it” can help you assess whether pursuing a particular action is likely to be beneficial or valuable.

Defining ‘It Is Worthy’

When we say something is “worthy,” we mean that it is deserving of respect, honor, attention, love, or praise. It is usually used to describe a person or something that is deserving of a reward. For example, you might say that “the kind princess is worthy of the prince’s love.” In this sense, “worthy” is an adjective that describes a person or thing that deserves something.

If you are talking about something that deserves respect or honor, then “it is worthy” is the correct phrase. If you are talking about something that is worth the money or time invested in it, then “it is worth it” is the correct phrase.

Practical Applications and Examples

When deciding between “it is worthy” and “it is worth it,” it is important to consider the practical applications of each phrase. Here are a few examples to help you understand when to use each one:

• Time: If you are considering whether to invest your time in a particular activity, you might say “it is worth it” to express that the experience will be enjoyable or valuable. On the other hand, if you are reflecting on how you spent your time, you might say “it was worthy” to indicate that the activity was worthwhile and meaningful.
• Kind: If someone does something kind for you, you might say “it was worthy” to express your gratitude and appreciation. If you are encouraging someone to do something kind for others, you might say “it is worth it” to emphasize the positive impact their actions could have.
• Teaching: If you are discussing the quality of a course or a teacher, you might say “it is worthy” to indicate that the material is valuable and well-taught. If you are encouraging someone to take a course or pursue a particular field of study, you might say “it is worth it” to emphasize the potential benefits of the education.
• People: If you are describing someone’s character or accomplishments, you might say “they are worthy” to indicate that they are deserving of respect and admiration. If you are encouraging someone to spend time with a particular person, you might say “they are worth it” to emphasize the positive qualities of the relationship.
• Idea: If you are discussing the merits of an idea, you might say “it is worthy” to indicate that it is well-considered and worthwhile. If you are encouraging someone to pursue a particular idea or project, you might say “it is worth it” to emphasize the potential benefits of the effort.
• City tour: If you are considering whether to pay for a city tour, you might say “it is worth it” to express that the experience will be enjoyable and informative despite the high price tag. If you are reflecting on the tour afterwards, you might say “it was worthy” to indicate that the experience was worthwhile and meaningful.
• Studying: If you are considering whether to invest time and money in studying for a particular course or exam, you might say “it is worth it” to emphasize the potential benefits of the education. If you are reflecting on your studies afterwards, you might say “it was worthy” to indicate that the effort was worthwhile and meaningful.
• Mary: If you are describing Mary’s accomplishments or character, you might say “she is worthy” to indicate that she is deserving of respect and admiration. If you are encouraging someone to spend time with Mary, you might say “she is worth it” to emphasize the positive qualities of the relationship.

The choice between “it is worthy” and “it is worth it” depends on the context and the intended meaning. By considering the practical applications and examples of each phrase, you can choose the one that best conveys your message.