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.
This job is tough, but it's worthwhile.
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.
It was worthwhile making the effort.
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.
I spent a worthwhile time.
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.
This movie is worth the time.
Means 'worth doing.' A straightforward, slightly casual expression. Can be used for tasks, activities, or experiences.
This game is worth playing.
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.
This book is worth the money.
Means 'worth buying.' Commonly used for products or items.
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.
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.
This project was worth the trouble.
Means 'worth doing even though it's a hassle.' 面倒 means troublesome or bothersome.
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.
This job is fulfilling (worthwhile emotionally).
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.
一度は行ってみる価値がある。
It's worth going at least once.
この仕事は割に合わない。
This job isn't worthwhile (the pay isn't worth the effort).
The procedure is a hassle, but it's worthwhile.