Many English learners get confused between “it worth it” and “it is worth it” because the phrases sound similar in casual conversation. However, only one of them is grammatically correct in standard English. Understanding the difference is important for speaking clearly, writing professionally, and avoiding common grammar mistakes in everyday communication.
Comparison Overview
The phrases “it worth it” and “it is worth it” are related because both try to express value, usefulness, or benefit. However, they are not equally correct in English grammar.
“It is worth it” is the grammatically correct phrase because it includes the necessary verb “is.” On the other hand, “it worth it” is incomplete and considered incorrect in formal English.
Here is a quick comparison table:
| Phrase | Grammatically Correct | Meaning | Common Usage |
| It worth it | No | Incomplete sentence structure | Informal mistakes by learners |
| It is worth it | Yes | Something has value or benefit | Spoken and written English |
Definition of It Worth It
“It worth it” is an incomplete and grammatically incorrect phrase in English. It attempts to express that something has value or is beneficial, but it is missing the helping verb “is.”
In English grammar, adjectives such as “worth” usually need a linking verb before them. Without the verb, the sentence structure becomes incorrect.
Incorrect example:
- It worth it to study hard.
Correct version:
- It is worth it to study hard.
Although some people may use “it worth it” in casual speech, texting, or non-native communication, it is not accepted in proper English writing.
Definition of It Is Worth It
“It is worth it” is the correct English phrase used to say that something has enough value, importance, or benefit to justify the effort, time, money, or difficulty involved.
The phrase follows proper grammar rules because it includes:
- Subject: “It”
- Linking verb: “is”
- Adjective phrase: “worth it”
Examples:
- It is worth it to learn a new language.
- The trip was expensive, but it is worth it.
- Practicing daily is worth it in the long run.
This phrase is commonly used in conversations, education, business, and writing.
Main Differences Between It Worth It and It Is Worth It
The main difference between these phrases is grammar correctness.
| Feature | It Worth It | It Is Worth It |
| Grammar | Incorrect | Correct |
| Contains verb | No | Yes |
| Accepted in formal writing | No | Yes |
| Common among learners | Yes | Yes |
| Natural English usage | No | Yes |
Another important difference is sentence completeness.
“It worth it” lacks a linking verb, making the sentence incomplete. English sentences usually require a verb to connect the subject with the description.
For example:
Incorrect:
- It worth it.
Correct:
- It is worth it.
In spoken English, native speakers may shorten “it is” to “it’s.”
Example:
- It’s worth it.
This contraction is still grammatically correct.
Why “It Is Worth It” Is Grammatically Correct
The adjective “worth” needs a linking verb before it. In this phrase, “is” acts as the linking verb connecting “it” to “worth.”
The correct grammatical structure is:
Subject + Linking Verb + Adjective Phrase
Example pattern:
- It + is + worth it
Without the linking verb, the sentence becomes grammatically incomplete.
Common Situations Where People Get Confused
Many learners make this mistake because:
- Some languages do not require linking verbs.
- Fast speech sometimes hides the word “is.”
- Informal texting often removes small words.
- Learners translate directly from their native language.
For example, someone may hear:
- It’s worth it.
But mistakenly write:
- It worth it.
Grammar Guide
How Each Term Is Used in Sentences
It Worth It
This phrase should generally not be used in correct English writing or speaking.
Incorrect patterns:
- It worth it to try.
- I think it worth it.
- This course worth it.
Corrected versions:
- It is worth it to try.
- I think it is worth it.
- This course is worth it.
It Is Worth It
This phrase is correctly used to describe something valuable or beneficial.
Sentence patterns:
- It is worth it + infinitive
- It is worth it + noun
- It is worth it + because clause
Examples:
- It is worth it to save money.
- The experience is worth it.
- It is worth it because you learn new skills.
Common Mistakes Learners Make
Learners often make these mistakes:
- Omitting the verb “is”
- Using incomplete sentence structures
- Copying informal speech into formal writing
- Forgetting that “worth” functions as an adjective
Incorrect:
- The project worth it.
Correct:
- The project is worth it.
Incorrect:
- It worth it studying English.
Correct:
- It is worth it studying English.
Simple Rules to Remember
Here are easy rules to remember:
- “Worth” usually needs a verb before it.
- If the sentence sounds incomplete, check for a missing “is.”
- Use “it is worth it” in formal writing.
- “It’s worth it” is the short spoken form.
Easy memory trick:
If you can replace the phrase with “it’s valuable,” you probably need “is.”
Example:
- It is valuable.
- It is worth it.
Quick Tips for Writing and Speaking
- Use “it is worth it” in essays and emails.
- Use “it’s worth it” in casual conversation.
- Avoid dropping the word “is.”
- Read sentences aloud to check completeness.
- Remember that every English sentence usually needs a verb.
When to Use Each One
Use “It Is Worth It” When:
- Writing formally
- Speaking professionally
- Describing value or benefit
- Explaining effort or reward
- Giving recommendations
Examples:
- It is worth it to attend the seminar.
- Learning coding is worth it.
- The investment is worth it.
Use “It Worth It” When:
In standard English, you should generally not use this phrase. It may appear in:
- Informal online chats
- Learner mistakes
- Non-standard speech
- Casual texting shortcuts
However, it should be avoided in proper communication.
When NOT to Use Each One
Do Not Use “It Worth It” In:
- Academic writing
- Business communication
- Professional presentations
- Exams
- Formal speaking
Do Not Overuse “It Is Worth It” When:
Although correct, this phrase should not be repeated excessively in writing. Use alternatives for variety, such as:
- It is valuable.
- It is beneficial.
- It pays off.
- It is worthwhile.
Which One to Use (Decision Guide)
Use this simple decision guide:
| Situation | Correct Choice |
| Formal writing | It is worth it |
| Academic essay | It is worth it |
| Business email | It is worth it |
| Everyday conversation | It is worth it / It’s worth it |
| Informal texting shortcut | Avoid “it worth it” |
| Grammar exams | It is worth it |
If you are unsure, always choose “it is worth it.”
Real-World Practical Examples
It Worth It Examples
These examples show incorrect or non-standard usage often made by learners.
- It worth it to buy the new laptop.
- I think the class worth it.
- The journey worth it after all.
- This software worth it for students.
- It worth it learning English every day.
Corrected versions:
- It is worth it to buy the new laptop.
- I think the class is worth it.
- The journey is worth it after all.
- This software is worth it for students.
- It is worth it learning English every day.
It Is Worth It Examples
- It is worth it to practice English daily.
- The online course is worth it for beginners.
- Buying quality tools is worth it in business.
- The medical treatment is expensive, but it is worth it.
- It is worth it to spend time with family.
- Learning technology skills is worth it for modern careers.
- The scientific research was difficult, but it was worth it.
- Traveling abroad is worth it for cultural experience.
- The long meeting was worth it because we solved the problem.
- Reading books regularly is worth it for personal growth.
Self-Assessment (Fill in the Blanks)
- It ______ worth it to study every day.
- The investment ______ worth it in the future.
- “It worth it” is grammatically ______.
- The correct phrase is “it ______ worth it.”
- Learning grammar is ______ it.
- The trip was expensive, but it ______ worth it.
- Every English sentence usually needs a ______.
- “Worth” commonly functions as an ______.
- It ______ worth it to learn coding skills.
- The correct contraction of “it is” is ______.
- The project ______ worth it after completion.
- Students should avoid writing “it worth ______.”
- The phrase “it is worth it” expresses ______.
- Formal writing requires grammatically ______ sentences.
- Native speakers often say “it’s worth ______.”
- The phrase “it worth it” misses the verb ______.
- Reading regularly is ______ it for vocabulary improvement.
- The sentence becomes incomplete without a ______.
- “It is worth it” is accepted in professional ______.
- The grammatically correct option is “it ______ worth it.”
Answers
- is
- is
- incorrect
- is
- worth
- was
- verb
- adjective
- is
- it’s
- was
- it
- value
- correct
- it
- is
- worth
- verb
- writing
- is
Final Verdict
Between “it worth it” and “it is worth it,” the correct and grammatically accepted phrase is clearly “it is worth it.” The phrase includes the necessary linking verb “is,” which makes the sentence complete and natural in English. While “it worth it” may appear in casual mistakes or learner speech, it should be avoided in proper writing and professional communication.
If you want to sound fluent, confident, and grammatically accurate, always use “it is worth it” or the contraction “it’s worth it.” Remember that the adjective “worth” usually requires a verb before it. Once you understand this simple rule, choosing the correct phrase becomes much easier in both speaking and writing.
Conclusion About It Worth It Or It Is Worth It
Understanding the difference between “it worth it” and “it is worth it” can greatly improve your English grammar and communication skills. While the two phrases may sound similar in fast conversation, only “it is worth it” is grammatically correct because it includes the necessary linking verb. Using the correct phrase helps your writing sound more natural, professional, and fluent in both formal and casual situations. Whether you are speaking with friends, writing emails, studying English, or preparing for exams, knowing this simple grammar rule can prevent common mistakes. Remember that “worth” usually needs a verb before it, which makes “it is worth it” the correct and complete expression. With regular practice and real-life examples, choosing the right phrase becomes easy and automatic in everyday English communication.
FAQs
Is “it worth it” grammatically correct?
No, “it worth it” is not grammatically correct in standard English. The phrase is missing the linking verb “is.” The correct expression is “it is worth it” or the contraction “it’s worth it,” which creates a complete and natural sentence structure.
Why do people say “it worth it” sometimes?
Some people use “it worth it” because of informal speech habits, translation mistakes, or confusion with English grammar rules. In fast conversation, “it’s” may sound unclear, causing learners to accidentally omit the verb when speaking or writing.
What does “it is worth it” mean?
“It is worth it” means something has enough value, benefit, or importance to justify the effort, cost, time, or difficulty involved. It is commonly used when discussing experiences, investments, education, relationships, or personal goals.
Can I use “it’s worth it” instead of “it is worth it”?
Yes, “it’s worth it” is completely correct. It is simply the contracted form of “it is worth it.” Native English speakers often use contractions in everyday conversation because they sound more natural and fluent.
Is “worth” a verb or an adjective?
In the phrase “it is worth it,” the word “worth” functions as an adjective. It describes the value or usefulness of something and usually follows a linking verb such as “is,” “was,” or “seems.”
Should I use “it is worth it” in formal writing?
Yes, “it is worth it” is appropriate for formal writing, academic work, business communication, and professional conversations. It follows standard English grammar rules and is widely accepted in both spoken and written English.
What is the biggest mistake learners make with this phrase?
The most common mistake is leaving out the verb “is.” Many learners write “it worth it” instead of “it is worth it,” creating an incomplete sentence that sounds unnatural in correct English grammar.
Are there alternatives to “it is worth it”?
Yes, there are several alternatives depending on the context. Common options include “it is worthwhile,” “it pays off,” “it is valuable,” and “it is beneficial.” These phrases can add variety to your speaking and writing.
How can I remember the correct phrase easily?
A simple trick is to remember that English sentences usually need a verb. Since “worth” cannot stand alone after “it,” you should add “is.” Thinking of the complete structure “it is worth it” helps avoid mistakes.
Is “it worth it” acceptable in casual texting?
Although some people may use “it worth it” in casual texting or online chats, it is still grammatically incorrect. Using “it’s worth it” is a better choice because it remains short, natural, and grammatically correct.
