Worthwhile
/ˌwɜːrθˈwaɪl/
Definitions
Of enough value, importance, or interest to be worth the time, effort, or money spent.
/ˌwɜːrθˈwaɪl/
Being important or useful enough to justify the effort, time, or cost.
It's a worthwhile goal to learn a new language.
💡 Simply: When something is worthwhile, it means it's a good use of your time or energy. Like, is it worthwhile to watch a long movie? If you enjoy it and it's a good movie, then yes!
👶 For kids: Something that is worthwhile is something good to do or have because it is useful or important.
More Examples
The volunteer work was a worthwhile experience for everyone involved.
Despite the challenges, the effort to save the old building proved to be worthwhile.
How It's Used
"Investing in education is a worthwhile endeavor."
"The project proved to be worthwhile, despite the initial challenges."
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
make it worthwhile
To make something appealing enough to justify the effort or cost.
"To make the trip worthwhile, we planned to visit several interesting places."
From Middle English 'worth whyle', meaning 'having value or merit to justify the time, effort, or expense involved'. 'Worth' meaning value, and 'while' meaning time or effort.
The term 'worthwhile' gained prominence in the 16th and 17th centuries, reflecting the rise of commerce and valuing of labor and time.
Memory tip
Think of something that's WORTH your WHILE. If it's worthwhile, the effort is a good investment.