Example: Este libro realmente vale la pena leerlo.
Definition
"Valer la pena" is a Spanish expression meaning that something is worth the effort, time, or expense involved. It indicates that the outcome or experience justifies the investment made, as in the example phrase: 'Este libro realmente vale la pena leerlo' (This book is really worth reading).
Translations
to be worthwhile
de moeite waard zijn
valer la pena
en valoir la peine
sich lohnen
Etymology
The phrase "valer la pena" comes from the Spanish verb 'valer' meaning 'to be worth' and 'pena' meaning 'pain' or 'effort.' Literally, it translates to 'to be worth the pain,' emphasizing that the effort or difficulty is justified by the reward. This idiomatic expression dates back to older uses of 'pena' in Spanish, reflecting the idea that worthwhile things often require some struggle.
Learn to use this expression actively
"Valer la pena" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (A2) - parte 1", containing 106 commonly used expressions.
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to be worthwhile