Worthless: meaning, definitions and examples

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worthless

[ˈwɜːrθləs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

feeling of self-worth

Having no real value or use; without merit; useless. Worthless is often used to describe something or someone that is considered insignificant or unimportant.

Synonyms

insignificant, unimportant, useless, valueless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
worthless	Use this word when describing something that has no value or benefits at all. It often has a negative connotation and is used to express strong disapproval or disappointment. He felt like all his efforts were worthless after the project was canceled. The broken machine is completely worthless now.
useless	Choose this word when talking about something that has no practical use or function. It often has a negative connotation similar to 'worthless'. This old phone is useless since it doesn’t turn on anymore. He felt useless because he couldn’t help his friends.
valueless	Best used when referring to something that has no worth, especially in terms of monetary value or significance. It has a slightly formal tone. The old currency became valueless after the country switched to a new one. These empty boxes are completely valueless.
unimportant	This word is used to describe something that does not have much significance or influence. It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The details of the meeting are unimportant; focus on the main points. For him, what others think is unimportant.
insignificant	This word is suitable for describing something that is too small or unimportant to be worth consideration. It is less harsh than 'worthless'. The amount of money we saved was insignificant compared to our overall goal. In the grand scheme of things, her mistake was insignificant.

Examples of usage

He felt worthless after failing the exam.
The broken watch was worthless and could not be repaired.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

monetary value

Not having monetary value; not worth any money. Something that is worthless in terms of money.

Synonyms

cheap, insignificant, unvaluable, valueless.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
worthless	Used to describe something that has no value or worth, often in a very negative sense. The old phone is now worthless due to its broken screen His promises turned out to be worthless
valueless	Used to describe something that has no worth, similar to 'worthless' but slightly less common. After the new regulations, the old contracts became valueless The currency was declared valueless after the economic collapse
insignificant	Used to describe something that is too small or unimportant to be worth consideration. The scratch on the car is insignificant His contribution to the project was insignificant
cheap	Used to describe something that is low in price or quality. Can have a slightly negative connotation if it implies low quality. I bought a cheap pair of sunglasses The fabric felt cheap and not durable
unvaluable	Less commonly used, it can describe something that does not have value or is not worthy of consideration. The trinket was unvaluable in monetary terms The document was unvaluable for the research

Examples of usage

The old coins in his collection turned out to be worthless.
The damaged painting was declared worthless by the appraiser.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from the Old English 'weorþ', meaning value or worth.
The suffix '-less' denotes absence, so 'worthless' literally means without worth.
The concept has been used throughout history to describe items, people, or ideas deemed to lack value.

Psychology

Feelings of worthlessness can be associated with depression and low self-esteem.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy often addresses thoughts of worthlessness by challenging negative beliefs.
Children who experience bullying may often feel worthless and require support to build their self-esteem.

Literature

There are numerous literary works that explore themes of worthlessness, often reflecting characters’ inner turmoil and societal rejection.
In poetry, feelings of worthlessness are commonly expressed through metaphors of decay or uselessness.
Notable authors like Virginia Woolf and Franz Kafka often touch on feelings of insignificance in their characters.

Economics

In economic terms, worthless items can refer to assets that have lost their market value.
During currency devaluations, money can become effectively worthless when it no longer buys goods.
Economic downturns often lead to discussions about worthlessness in terms of investments and job security.

Pop Culture

Songs and movies often tackle subjects of worthlessness, portraying characters overcoming feelings of inadequacy.
Social media can amplify feelings of worthlessness, especially among youth comparing themselves to others.
Quotes like 'You are worth more than you think' challenge the idea of worthlessness and encourage self-worth.

Translations

Translations of the word "worthless" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inútil

🇮🇳 बेकार

🇩🇪 wertlos

🇮🇩 tak berharga

🇺🇦 некорисний

🇵🇱 bezwartościowy

🇯🇵 価値のない

🇫🇷 sans valeur

🇪🇸 sin valor

🇹🇷 değersiz

🇰🇷 가치 없는

🇸🇦 عديم القيمة

🇨🇿 bezcenný

🇸🇰 bezcenný

🇨🇳 无价值的

🇸🇮 neuporaben

🇮🇸 verðlaus

🇰🇿 құнсыз

🇬🇪 უმნიშვნელო

🇦🇿 dəyərsiz

🇲🇽 sin valor

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,460 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8457 consul
8458 reared
8459 supplements
8460 worthless
8461 voter
8462 vanity
8463 airline
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