Translation guide
How to express that something has value, is worthwhile, or deserves effort/cost in Japanese.
Express that an action is worth the effort, time, or trouble involved.
Literally 'there is value in doing V'. A direct and common way to say something is worth doing.
This movie is worth watching.
That book is worth reading.
Emphasizes that the effort or hardship was rewarded. Often used when the result justifies the struggle.
It was worth studying so hard.
It was worth waking up early; we saw a beautiful sunrise.
In some contexts, 'it's worth doing' can be softened to 'it's okay to do', implying the benefit outweighs the cost. Use carefully; it's less direct.
This restaurant is a bit expensive, but I think it's worth going.
Express that something is worth its price or has monetary value.
Directly states that something has the value of N (often money).
This painting is worth one million yen.
Formal/literary expression meaning 'to be worthy of N'. Often used for abstract worth.
That work is worth an award.
Means 'a good deal' or 'worth the money' in a bargain sense. Common in everyday speech.
This set is a great deal (worth the money).
Express that something is meaningful, valuable, or worthwhile in a broad sense.
Express that something is not worth the effort, time, or cost.
Direct negation of 'worth doing'.
That movie is not worth watching.
Means 'not worth the effort/cost' or 'the return doesn't match the input'. Common in work or financial contexts.
価値がある is a general statement of value. 甲斐がある emphasizes that the effort or hardship was rewarded, often with a sense of personal satisfaction. Use 甲斐がある when you want to highlight that the struggle paid off.
It was worth the trouble.
Do not directly translate 'be worth' as 〜である価値. While understandable, it's unnatural. Use the patterns above instead.
Is it worth going?
It's not worth the risk.
This job doesn't pay enough; it's not worth it.