“Master the difference between ‘It Worth It’ and ‘It Is Worth It’ with simple explanations and practical examples.”
Understanding proper grammar can make your English more natural and professional. One common confusion arises between the phrases **“it worth it” and “it is worth it. While they look similar, only one is grammatically correct. Let’s break this down to help you communicate effectively.
If you’ve ever wondered which phrase to use in conversations, emails, or writing, you’re not alone. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to use these phrases confidently.
This guide dives into the grammar behind “worth,” explains how to use “It is worth it” correctly, and provides plenty of examples to make the concept stick.
Overview
The word “worth” is widely used in English to express value or importance. However, **“it worth it” is incomplete because it lacks a verb, making it grammatically incorrect. The correct form, “it is worth it, includes the verb “is to complete the sentence. Let’s explore these phrases in-depth to understand their proper usage and context.
Understanding the Basics: “It Worth It” vs. “It Is Worth It”
Imagine your friend shows you a new gadget and asks, “Should I buy it?” If you reply with **“it worth it,” it might confuse them because the phrase is incomplete. The correct response is **“it is worth it.” Here, “is acts as the verb that links the subject (“it”) to the adjective (“worth”).
Examples:
- Incorrect: “The movie was great; it worth it.”
Correct: “The movie was great; it is worth it.” - Incorrect: “This restaurant? Totally it worth it.”
Correct: “This restaurant? Totally it is worth it.” - Incorrect: “That course online? It worth it to try.”
Correct: “That course online? It is worth it to try.”
Exploring the Grammar: When to Use “Is” with Worth
In English, “worth” needs the verb “to be” to form a complete sentence. “It is worth it” emphasizes that something has value or is deserving of effort. Without the verb, the sentence feels incomplete and unclear.
Scenario:
You’re convincing your friend to see a popular play.
- Incorrect: “Trust me, it worth it.”
- Correct: “Trust me, it is worth it.”
The Role of the Verb “To Be” in Worth Constructions
The verb “to be” is essential when using “worth” in sentences. It connects the subject to its value or importance.
Examples:
- “It is worth the wait for the concert tickets.”
- “The promotion is worth all the hard work.”
- “That book is worth reading twice.”
Examples of “It Is Worth It” in Action
Using “it is worth it” in sentences can help emphasize the value of experiences, products, or efforts.
Scenario:
Your coworker asks if attending a training session is beneficial.
- Response: “Yes, it is worth it. You’ll learn so much.”
Examples:
- “The long drive was tiring, but it is worth it for the view.”
- “I know it’s pricey, but the quality makes it worth it.”
- “It is worth it to wake up early for a sunrise hike.”
Debunking Common Worth Usage Mistakes
Many learners make errors by omitting verbs or using incorrect structures like “worth to do.” Let’s clarify these issues.
Examples:
- Incorrect: “This phone worth to buy.”
Correct: “This phone is worth buying.” - Incorrect: “The class worth your time.”
Correct: “The class is worth your time.”
Why “Worth to Do Something” Is Always Incorrect
The phrase “worth to do something” is a common mistake. In English, “worth” is not followed by “to” and an infinitive. Instead, use a gerund (verb+ing) or a noun.
Examples:
- Incorrect: “This book is worth to read.”
Correct: “This book is worth reading.” - Incorrect: “That place is worth to visit.”
Correct: “That place is worth visiting.”
Correct Use of Worth with Gerunds and Nouns
When describing the value of an action, use a gerund or noun after “worth.” This structure highlights the effort or importance of the subject.
Scenario:
You’re recommending a cooking class to a friend.
- Correct: “It is worth attending if you love cooking.”
Delving Into “Worth” as a Preposition and Its Usage
Worth functions as a preposition in sentences, linking the subject to its value or action. It often introduces gerunds or nouns.
Examples:
- “Is the movie worth the ticket price?”
- “This game is worth trying for its story.”
- “The effort is worth the outcome.”
In Summer vs In the Summer: Understanding the Context
Comparing “Worth” with “Worthy”: When and How to Use Each
Worth expresses value, while worthy means deserving. Mixing these up can lead to confusion.
Examples:
- In Correct: “That museum is worth visiting.”
- Correct: “Her kindness makes her worthy of praise.”
- In correct: “The award is worthy the effort.”
Correct: “The award is worth the effort.”
| Aspect | “It Worth It” | “It Is Worth It” |
| Grammar | Grammatically incorrect; lacks a linking verb. | Grammatically correct; includes the verb “is.” |
| Usage | Often a mistake by non-native speakers or typos. | Proper English usage in formal and informal contexts. |
| Meaning | Ambiguous or unclear due to incorrect grammar. | Conveys value or importance effectively. |
| Examples | “It worth it to try harder.” (incorrect) | “It is worth it to try harder.” (correct) |
| Professionalism | Perceived as unprofessional in writing or speech. | Appropriate for professional and casual settings. |
Common Collocations with “Worth”
Collocations are natural word pairings. Using these with “worth” will make your English sound fluent.
Examples:
- “Worth every penny.”
- “Worth your time.”
- “Worth a try.”
The Meaning and Implications of “Worth It” in Sentences
The phrase “worth it” implies that something is valuable or justified. It emphasizes the benefit of effort or cost.
“Worth” vs “Worthy” vs “Worthwhile”: Understanding the Differences
- Worth: Relates to value. (e.g., “It is worth $50.”)
- Worthy: Suggests deservingness. (e.g., “She is worthy of praise.”)
- Worthwhile: Refers to being worth the time or effort. (e.g., “That project is worthwhile.”)
Practical Advice: Making “Worth” Work for You in English
To master “worth,” focus on using it correctly with verbs, nouns, and gerunds. Avoid common errors and remember to include the verb “to be.”
Key Insight
1. Is “It worth it” ever correct?
No, the correct phrase is “It is worth it” because a verb is needed.
2. Can “worth” be used without “is?”
Only in informal phrases like “Worth it?” which is a conversational shortcut.
3. What’s the difference between “worth” and “worthy?”
Worth refers to value; worthy means deserving.
4. Why can’t I say “worth to do?”
In English, “worth” is followed by a gerund or noun, not an infinitive.
5. What does “worthwhile” mean?
It means something is worth the time or effort spent on it.
Wrap Up
Mastering the use of “It is worth it” over “It worth it” helps you sound more confident and professional in English. The phrase “worth” emphasizes value, and understanding its grammar ensures your communication is clear and polished. Practice using “worth” correctly in sentences, and soon it will become second nature. Remember: a small grammar correction can make a big difference in how you express yourself!
Hi! I’m Lauren Reynolds, the author of Grammar Glides. I create easy-to-follow content that helps you master English with confidence. Let’s make learning English simple and enjoyable together!