値する

あたいする

to be worth, to deserve

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"値する" (あたいする) is a formal verb meaning "to be worth" or "to deserve" something. It is often used in written or polite contexts to express that a person, action, or thing merits a certain evaluation or reward.

Common Collocations

  • "称賛に値する" (しょうさんにあたいする): deserves praise
  • "注目に値する" (ちゅうもくにあたいする): worth attention
  • "理解に値する" (りかいにあたいする): worth understanding

Usage Notes

This verb is typically used with abstract nouns like praise, attention, or effort rather than physical objects. It often appears in formal writing, speeches, or evaluations. Learners should avoid confusing it with casual expressions of worth like "価値がある" which is more common in everyday conversation.

Common Mistake

A frequent mistake is to use "値する" in casual speech where simpler expressions like "価値がある" or "〜にふさわしい" are more natural. Remember that "値する" carries a formal tone and is best reserved for written or formal spoken Japanese.

Example Sentences

このえいがはいっけんのかちがある。

This movie is worth watching once.

かれのどりょくはしょうさんにあたいする。

His effort deserves praise.

このほんはしょしんしゃにもりかいにあたいするないようだ。

This book contains content worth understanding even for beginners.