WordGarden.iovalueless
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /vˈæljuːləs/
US
- /ˈvæljuləs/
Meanings
Adjective
having no real worth, usefulness, or importance
having no financial or market value
Beyond the definition
Something valueless has no worth, whether in money, use, or importance. A broken toy may become valueless to a child who no longer wants it. The word suggests that something gives nothing useful, meaningful, or good in that situation. You might call an argument based on lies valueless because it adds nothing helpful. Sometimes, things become valueless because of what happens to them, like a once-loved object ruined in a fire.
Imagine a pirate searching for buried treasure. He digs and digs, only to find nothing of worth. That emptiness, that lack of benefit or significance, is what "valueless" describes. It goes beyond simply being cheap; it means having no value at all in a given context, whether that value is monetary, practical, or emotional.
A valueless object might be broken beyond repair, outdated, or simply unwanted. But the term is not limited to physical things. Valueless advice is unhelpful and offers no real guidance. A valueless claim or argument has no real force because it is weak, false, or pointless. The word can also describe something that has lost its worth over time or because of changing circumstances.
Sometimes, something becomes valueless through loss or change. A cherished childhood memento might seem valueless to someone else, while still meaning a great deal to you. The key is that "valueless" describes a complete absence of worth in a particular situation. It is a strong word, suggesting not just a low price, but no real worth at all.
So, if something offers no benefit, holds no meaning, and contributes nothing useful, it can be called valueless.
Examples
- 1
Jewelry appraisal
The necklace looked expensive, but the jeweler said it was valueless because the stones were fake.
- 2
Canceled event
The tickets became valueless after the concert was canceled.
- 3
Research evidence
Without the names or dates, the old photos were almost valueless to the researchers.
- 4
Empty promise
A promise is valueless if the person making it never intends to keep it.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Emotional harm
No child should ever be made to feel valueless.
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- valuelessadjective