väärtuslik

Väärtuslik is an Estonian adjective meaning valuable, precious, or meaningful. It describes things that have value in a monetary sense or that hold importance, merit, or usefulness. The term can apply to tangible objects, experiences, ideas, or people’s contributions. In everyday language it is common to say väärtuslik esine for a valuable item or väärtuslik kogemus for a valuable experience. It is not identical to kallis (expensive); vääruslik emphasizes value or significance rather than price.

Etymology: The word is formed from the noun väärtus “value” with the productive suffix -lik, yielding väärtuslik, meaning “having value” or “valuable.” This pattern is typical for Estonian adjectives and reflects the close link between language and the concept of value.

Usage and nuance: In ethical or philosophical contexts, väärtuslik may describe objects or actions with intrinsic or moral worth. In business or valuation contexts, it can denote assets or activities with demonstrable usefulness or merit. The term is versatile and common in both formal and informal discourse.

Examples: See kell on väga väärtuslik. (This watch is very valuable.) Tema panus projekti jaoks oli väga väärtuslik. (Her contribution to the project was very valuable.) Väärtuslikku may also appear in discussions about quality, significance, or cultural importance.

See also: väärtus, väärtushinnang.