American English

How to pronounce worthwhile

adjectiveB1
WERTHWAIL

/ˈwɚθˈwaɪl/

2 syllables · Stress the first syllable.

Worth giving time, effort, or money to because it is useful, enjoyable, or likely to bring a good result.

What to listen for

In “worthwhile,” stress the first part more strongly: “WORTH-while.”

Practice out loud

Meanings & examples

adjective

Worth giving time, effort, or money to because it is useful, enjoyable, or likely to bring a good result.

The course was worthwhile because I learned useful skills.

Volunteering can be a worthwhile experience.

Common phrases & grammar

worthwhile investment · worthwhile experience · worthwhile effort · worthwhile project

It is worthwhile to + verb

a worthwhile + noun

Useful expressions

make it worthwhile

Make the time, effort, or cost seem justified.

The extra pay made the long trip worthwhile.

Related words & forms