Mastering English grammar can be tricky, especially when it comes to phrases like “it worth it” and “it is worth it.” If you’ve ever wondered which one is correct and why, you’re in the right place.
This guide will break down the rules of “worth,” explain common mistakes, and provide practical examples to help you use this phrase confidently in your writing and speech.
Is it “it worth it” or “it is worth it”? The correct phrase is “it is worth it” because “worth” is an adjective that requires the verb “to be.” Learn how to use “worth” correctly with examples and common mistakes to avoid!
Understanding the Basics: “It Worth It” vs. “It Is Worth It”
The phrase “it worth it” is grammatically incorrect. The correct structure is “it is worth it.” The reason is simple: “worth” is an adjective, not a verb, and it needs a form of the verb “to be” to function properly in a sentence.
Incorrect: “The movie was so good that it worth it.”
Correct: “The movie was so good that it is worth it.”
Now, let’s explore why “is” is essential in this structure.
Exploring the Grammar: When to Use “Is” with Worth
Since “worth” is an adjective, it needs a linking verb (like “is” or “was”) to connect it to the subject. This is why you always say, “It is worth it” rather than “It worth it.” The verb “to be” acts as a bridge, making the sentence grammatically sound.
Examples:
- “The book is worth reading.”
- “Is it worth the effort?”
- “The concert was worth the price.”
The Role of the Verb “To Be” in Worth Constructions
The verb “to be” (in different tenses) is necessary for forming correct sentences with “worth.” Here’s how “worth” interacts with different forms of “to be”:
| Tense | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Present | “This movie is worth watching.” |
| Past | “The trip was worth every penny.” |
| Future | “This investment will be worth it in the long run.” |
The absence of “to be” in these structures would make the sentence incorrect or incomplete.
Examples of “It Is Worth It” in Action
Here are some practical examples to illustrate how “it is worth it” is used:
- “The long wait at the restaurant was frustrating, but the food was delicious, so it was worth it.”
- “Learning a second language takes time, but it is worth it for career opportunities.”
- “It may be expensive, but it is worth it if it makes your life easier.”
These examples show that “it is worth it” is used when evaluating whether something justifies the effort, time, or money spent.
Debunking Common Worth Usage Mistakes
Mistakes with “worth” are common among English learners. Here are some frequent errors and their corrections:
| Incorrect | Correct |
| “It worth to buy this laptop.” | “It is worth buying this laptop.” |
| “This book worth reading.” | “This book is worth reading.” |
| “Is the movie worth to watch?” | “Is the movie worth watching?” |
By avoiding these errors, you can ensure that your sentences sound natural and grammatically correct.
Why “Worth to Do Something” Is Always Incorrect
Many learners mistakenly say “worth to do something.” However, “worth” is never followed by “to + verb.” Instead, it should be followed by a gerund (verb+ing) or a noun.
Incorrect: “This movie is worth to watch.”
Correct: “This movie is worth watching.”
Incorrect: “The course is worth to take.”
Correct: “The course is worth taking.”
Correct Use of Worth with Gerunds and Nouns
“Worth” is commonly followed by a gerund (verb+ing) or a noun.
Worth + Gerund
- “The book is worth reading.”
- “Is it worth visiting that museum?”
Worth + Noun
- “This advice is worth consideration.”
- “Is this plan worth the investment?”
Using “worth” correctly ensures your sentences are clear and grammatically accurate.
Delving Into “Worth” as a Preposition and Its Usage
“Worth” functions as a preposition, meaning “having a value equivalent to.” This explains why it is not followed by “to + verb.”
Examples:
- “The house is worth $500,000.”
- “Her efforts are worth admiration.”
- “This new feature is worth the upgrade.”
Comparing “Worth” with “Worthy”: When and How to Use Each
“Worth” and “worthy” are related but not interchangeable. Here’s how to distinguish them:
| Word | Part of Speech | Example |
| Worth | Preposition/Adjective | “This watch is worth $1000.” |
| Worthy | Adjective | “She is worthy of praise.” |
- “Worth” is followed by a noun or gerund.
- “Worthy” is followed by “of + noun” or “to + verb.”
Common Collocations with “Worthy”
“Worthy” is used in specific phrases:
- “Worthy of respect” – “His achievements make him worthy of respect.”
- “Worthy of consideration” – “The idea is worthy of consideration.”
- “A worthy cause” – “Helping the people with low-income is a worthy cause.”
“Worth” vs “Worthy” vs “Worthwhile”: Understanding the Differences
| Word | Meaning | Example |
| Worth | Value or importance | “This phone is worth buying.” |
| Worthy | Deserving or suitable | “She is worthy of the award.” |
| Worthwhile | Beneficial or rewarding | “This documentary is worthwhile to watch.” |
Defining “Worth” in Different Contexts
“Worth” can indicate monetary value, effort, or importance.
Examples:
- Financial Value: “The painting is worth a fortune.”
- Effort/Time: “The trip was worth the hassle.”
- Moral/Personal Value: “This experience was worth it.”
Using “Worthwhile” Correctly
“Worthwhile” means beneficial or rewarding.
Examples:
- “Is the course worthwhile?” (Correct)
- “The investment was worthwhile.” (Correct)
“Worthwhile” is used as an adjective to describe actions or things that bring benefits.
FAQs
Is “it worth it” correct grammar?
No, “it worth it” is incorrect. The correct phrase is “it is worth it” because “worth” is an adjective that requires the verb “to be” for proper sentence structure.
Why do we say “it is worth it” instead of “it worth it”?
“Worth” is an adjective, and adjectives need a linking verb like “is” to connect them to the subject. That’s why we say “it is worth it.”
Can you say “worth to do something”?
No, “worth” should never be followed by “to + verb.” Instead, use a gerund (verb+ing), like “This book is worth reading” (not “worth to read”).
What is the difference between “worth” and “worthy”?
“Worth” is used to indicate value (e.g., “The trip is worth it”), while “worthy” means deserving (e.g., “She is worthy of respect”).
How do you use “worth” with money?
“Worth” can indicate financial value, such as “This car is worth $10,000.”
What does “worthwhile” mean?
“Worthwhile” means beneficial or rewarding, as in “This course is worthwhile for beginners.”
Practical Advice: Making “Worth” Work for You in English
- Always use “is/was/will be” with “worth.”
- Never use “worth to + verb.”
- Use “worthy of,” not “worthy to.”
- “Worthwhile” means beneficial and is often used to describe activities.
By following these rules, you’ll confidently use “worth,” “worthy,” and “worthwhile” in everyday English!
