Translation guide
The English word 'worthy' describes someone or something that deserves respect, attention, or a particular outcome. This guide helps learners express this concept naturally in Japanese, covering adjectives, verbs, and set phrases for different contexts.
To say that a person, cause, or action is deserving of respect, praise, or support.
He is a worthy leader.
That's a worthy deed.
A phrase meaning 'has value' or 'is worth'. Used to say something is worthy of attention, effort, or consideration.
This issue is worthy of discussion.
His opinion is worthy of being heard.
A more formal phrase meaning 'worthy of respect'. Used in written or formal contexts.
His dedication is worthy of respect.
To say that someone or something merits a specific result, such as praise, blame, or attention.
A pattern meaning 'worthy of ~' or 'deserves ~'. Attach a noun or verb phrase before に値する.
His efforts are worthy of praise.
That movie is worth watching.
Means 'it is worth doing' or 'there is value in doing'. Often used with verbs in the た-form or nouns.
It was worth the effort.
A phrase meaning 'is worth doing' or 'has enough value to do'. Used to emphasize that something merits the action.
To describe a competitor, cause, or person that is respectable and deserving of serious consideration, even if not the best.
To say that something is important or significant enough to be mentioned or recorded.
Both express 'worthy', but 価値がある is more common in everyday speech for general value, while に値する is slightly more formal and often used with abstract nouns like 尊敬 (respect) or 称賛 (praise).
This movie is worth watching.
This movie is worthy of praise.
English often uses 'worthy' as a prenominal adjective (e.g., 'a worthy cause'). Japanese does not have a single adjective that covers all uses. Instead, use phrases like 立派な or 価値がある depending on the nuance.
He is a worthy successor.
That's a cause worthy of support.
She proved herself worthy of the title.
Uses ふさわしい (suitable/worthy) instead of 値する for a more natural fit.
Life is worth living.
This book is worthy of reading.
Let's work hard toward a worthy goal.
手強い相手だった。
It was a worthy opponent.