Valuable Meaning and Definition
Valuable
Pronunciation
/ˈvæljuːəbəl/
Part of Speech
Adjective, Noun
Definition
Having considerable monetary or material worth; precious and highly prized; or a thing of value or importance.
Examples
- The painting was a valuable addition to the museum’s collection.
- Her valuable advice helped me make the right decision.
Synonyms
- Precious
- Priceless
- Invaluable
Antonyms
- Worthless
- Valueless
- Unimportant
Additional Information
The concept of value is complex and can vary depending on cultural, social, and personal contexts. Something that is valuable to one person may not be as valuable to another. Valuable items can be tangible, such as a rare gemstone or a work of art, or intangible, such as knowledge, skills, or relationships.
In economics, value is often associated with the concept of scarcity and supply and demand. The value of a good or service is determined by its market price, which is influenced by factors such as its rarity, quality, and demand.
In a broader sense, value can refer to something that is considered important or worthy of respect, such as human life, freedom, or dignity. These values are often considered to be inherent and are not necessarily tied to monetary worth.
Etimology
The word “valuable” comes from the Latin “valuare,” which means “to be worth.” The concept of value has evolved over time, influenced by philosophical, economic, and cultural developments.
Usage Notes
The word “valuable” can be used in various contexts, including business, finance, art, and personal relationships. It can also be used to describe abstract concepts, such as values and principles.
When using the word “valuable,” consider the context and the intended meaning. For example, in a business context, “valuable” may refer to something that has monetary worth, while in a personal relationship, it may refer to something that is emotionally or sentimentally valuable.
Cultural References
The concept of value is often explored in literature and art. For example, in William Shakespeare’s play “The Merchant of Venice,” the character of Shylock is obsessed with the value of money and possessions.
In modern popular culture, the concept of value is often presented in terms of material wealth and consumerism. For example, in the TV show “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” the characters often flaunt their wealth and material possessions.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Value for money”
- “Valuable lesson”
- “Add value to”
Related Words or Phrases
- Worthwhile
- Beneficial
- Advantageous
Collocations
- Valuable asset
- Valuable resource
- Valuable experience
Frequency of Use
The word “valuable” is commonly used in everyday language, particularly in business and financial contexts. It is also used in personal relationships to describe something that is emotionally or sentimentally valuable.