Translation guide
The English word 'worthwhile' describes something that is worth the time, effort, or money spent on it. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, verbs, and set phrases depending on the nuance—whether it's about personal fulfillment, practical benefit, or simply being a good use of time.
Expressing that an activity or effort is rewarding, meaningful, or gives a sense of fulfillment.
Literally 'there is a sense of worth in doing it.' Used for activities that are fulfilling, challenging in a good way, or give a sense of purpose. Common for work, hobbies, or long-term efforts.
この仕事は大変だけど、やりがいがある。
This job is tough, but it's worthwhile.
ボランティア活動はやりがいがあります。
Volunteer work is worthwhile.
Means 'it's worth the effort' or 'the result justifies the effort.' Often used with verbs in the 〜た form + 甲斐がある. Slightly more formal/literary than やりがいがある.
努力した甲斐があった。
It was worthwhile making the effort.
練習した甲斐があって、試合に勝てた。
All that practice was worthwhile—we won the match.
Means 'meaningful' or 'significant.' Often used for time, activities, or discussions that are productive and worthwhile in a deeper sense. Common in formal or written contexts.
有意義な時間を過ごしました。
I spent a worthwhile time.
この会議はとても有意義だった。
This meeting was very worthwhile.
Saying that something is a good use of time, or that the result justifies the time/effort spent.
Literally 'there is value in spending time on it.' A direct and natural way to say something is worth the time.
この映画は時間をかける価値がある。
This movie is worth the time.
Means 'worth doing.' A straightforward, slightly casual expression. Can be used for tasks, activities, or experiences.
このゲームはやる価値があるよ。
This game is worth playing.
一度は行ってみる価値がある。
It's worth going at least once.
Means 'it pays off' or 'it's worth the trouble.' Often used when the benefit outweighs the cost or effort. Can be used in negative form to say something is not worth it.
Expressing that something is worth its price, or a good investment.
Literally 'there is value in paying money for it.' A clear way to say something is worth the money.
この本はお金を出す価値がある。
This book is worth the money.
Means 'worth buying.' Commonly used for products or items.
このスマホは買う価値がある。
This smartphone is worth buying.
Means 'a good deal' or 'economical.' Used when something is worth it because you get more than you pay for. Casual and common in everyday speech.
このセットはお得だね。
This set is a worthwhile deal.
Saying that something is worth doing even though it's difficult, inconvenient, or requires sacrifice.
Literally 'there is value in going through hardship.' Used when the difficulty is justified by the outcome.
このプロジェクトは苦労する価値があった。
This project was worth the trouble.
Means 'worth doing even though it's a hassle.' 面倒 means troublesome or bothersome.
手続きは面倒でもやる価値がある。
The procedure is a hassle, but it's worthwhile.
やりがいがある focuses on personal fulfillment and emotional reward, often from effort or challenge. 価値がある is more objective, meaning 'has value' or 'is worth it' in terms of time, money, or result. Use やりがい for work, hobbies, or personal growth; use 価値 for evaluating things, experiences, or investments.
この仕事はやりがいがある。
This job is fulfilling (worthwhile emotionally).
この美術館は行く価値がある。
This museum is worth visiting (objectively valuable).
The English word 'worthwhile' is sometimes borrowed as ワースワイル in very niche contexts, but it is not standard and will not be understood by most Japanese speakers. Always use a natural Japanese expression instead.
この仕事は割に合わない。
This job isn't worthwhile (the pay isn't worth the effort).