C1adjective2K

Worthy

UK /["/ˈwɜːði/"]/US /["/ˈwɜːrði/"]/

Definition

having the qualities that deserve somebody/something

In simple words: Deserving respect or attention.

Examples

  • She is worthy of all the praise she receives for her charity work.
  • This book is worthy reading for anyone interested in history.
  • He made a worthy opponent in the chess tournament.
  • The sculpture is worthy of being displayed in the museum.
  • She felt worthy of the promotion after all her hard work.
  • They donated to a worthy cause that supports education in developing countries.
  • The candidate has a worthy chance of winning the election.
  • In the story, the hero is deemed worthy to wield the magical sword.

Usage notes

Use 'worthy' to describe someone or something deserving of recognition. It's more appropriate in neutral or positive contexts, such as discussing achievements.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of 'worthy' as 'worth a lot' to help remember its meaning.

Collocations

  • be
  • prove (yourself)
  • seem
  • most
  • very
  • well
  • of
  • be
  • prove (yourself)
  • seem
  • most
  • very
  • well
  • of

Synonyms

  • deserving

Antonyms

  • unworthy
  • disgraceful
  • undeserving

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'worthy' with 'worthless'.
  • Using 'worthy' without a clear subject or object.
  • Mixing up the spelling with similar sounding words like 'worship'.