German word

wertlos

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈveːɐ̯tloːs/

Meaning

  • adjectiveworthless

Example

Sie fand das wertlose Spielzeug im Keller.

She found the worthless toy in the basement.

Illustration for wertlos (worthless)

More examples

Die alte Münze ist praktisch wertlos.

The old coin is practically worthless.

Core concept

A thing dismissed because it offers no useful benefit or meaningful significance.

Common phrases

  • praktisch wertlos

    practically worthless

  • absolut wertlos

    absolutely worthless

Similar words

nutzlos: Providing no practical benefit or help.
unbrauchbar: Not fit for practical use because of damage or defects.
minderwertig: Inferior in quality or materials and therefore lower in value.
billig: Low-priced and cheap-looking, with poor perceived quality.

Definition in German

Keinen ökonomischen oder ideellen Wert haben; nicht nützlich oder anerkannt sein.

Word origin

The adjective combines Wert, meaning value, with the suffix -los, meaning without, in a formation parallel to English worthless.

Usage tips

  • When applied to a person, wertlos is strongly demeaning, so it is much harsher than criticism of an object or idea.

Opposites

Related words

  • Wertlosigkeitworthlessnessnoun

Word lists with this word