Inklingo

How to Say "worth" in Spanish

English → Spanish

valor

vah-LOR/baˈloɾ/

nounA2general
Use 'valor' when talking about the objective, intrinsic, or monetary value of something, like an object or an abstract concept.
A single, large, perfectly cut, sparkling diamond resting on a red velvet cushion, symbolizing worth or importance.

Examples

¿Cuál es el valor real de esta joya antigua?

What is the real value of this antique jewel?

El valor del dólar subió hoy.

The value of the dollar went up today.

Ese gesto tiene un gran valor sentimental para mí.

That gesture has great sentimental value for me.

Always Masculine

Since 'valor' is a masculine noun, remember to use the masculine articles: 'el valor' or 'un valor'.

Valor vs. Precio

Mistake: “No entendemos el valor.”

Correction: No entendemos el precio. (Use 'precio' specifically when asking about the ticket/tag price; use 'valor' for abstract or intrinsic worth.)

dignidad

/dig-ni-dad//diɣ.niˈðað/

nounB1general
Choose 'dignidad' to express the intrinsic worth and respect that every person possesses, often in a moral or ethical context.
A storybook illustration of an adult standing upright and centered, radiating calm confidence and self-respect, illuminated by a soft glow.

Examples

Todos los seres humanos nacen libres y con igual dignidad.

All human beings are born free and with equal dignity.

Ella mantuvo su dignidad a pesar de la situación difícil.

She maintained her dignity despite the difficult situation.

Perder el empleo fue un golpe a su dignidad.

Losing the job was a blow to his self-respect.

Gender Check

Remember that 'dignidad' is a feminine noun, so you must use 'la' before it (la dignidad) and feminine adjectives after it (dignidad absoluta).

Abstract Nouns

Like many abstract concepts in Spanish, 'dignidad' often appears with the definite article 'la' even when English might omit 'the' (e.g., 'La dignidad es importante' - Dignity is important).

False Cognate Alert

Mistake: “Using 'dignidad' when you mean 'dignitary' (a high-ranking person).”

Correction: The word for a dignitary is 'dignatario' (masculine) or 'dignataria' (feminine). 'Dignidad' only refers to the quality of worthiness.

mérito

nounB1general
Use 'mérito' to refer to the value of a specific action or achievement, often highlighting personal effort or deservedness.

Examples

Tu dibujo tiene mucho mérito, te esforzaste mucho.

Your drawing has a lot of merit; you put in a lot of effort.

valía

nounB2formal
Employ 'valía' for personal or professional worth, emphasizing the high quality or capability of a person in a specific role.

Examples

Es una profesional de gran valía para nuestra empresa.

She is a professional of great worth to our company.

Valor vs. Mérito

Learners often confuse 'valor' and 'mérito'. Remember that 'valor' usually refers to the objective value of an object or concept, while 'mérito' is about the value of an action or personal achievement due to effort.

Related Translations

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