The beauty of each language is revealed in the nuances, and Russian was no exception. When you say, they say, “a job well done is worth a lot,” what do you mean? Point out the need for timely payment at a higher rate? Would you like to demonstrate your privilege by adding two “extra” letters to a long-known word? Let's figure it out!
What is the difference between valuable and priceless?
Going to the market, a person tries to plan expenses in advance. Counts money in a wallet and on a card, studies the stock schedule, takes discount cards. And then he walks between the counters and looks: where is cheaper and where is too expensive. And thereby evaluates the material value of each item encountered! He does not care about the social or cultural aspect. So, relics of ancient religious movements are often sold by weight, at the price of gold, from which statuettes of gods and ritual accessories are made.
But there are things in parallel that cannot be measured with any ruler. Their adequate assessment sounds and is written as "worth it!" The addition of a miniature "th" dramatically changes the meaning, directs it to the spiritual plane. Now the speaker expresses his readiness to value something, but at the same time refuses to name the amount for which he will buy. He without the slightest doubt leaves commodity-money relations.
What can we talk about this?
The phrase is most often aimed at someone else's or a common object of admiration. You simply share the joy in isolation from the material, paying tribute:
- the beauty of a knitted napkin;
- salvation of the soul;
- mother’s smile;
- baby tear, etc.
In translations into English and vice versa, it is possible to trace what values the phrase corresponds to. Among the most common options you will find:
- means a lot;
- unbelievable;
- talking about something;
- it was worth it, etc.
The phrase is neutral in itself, it does not praise and does not humiliate the one to whom it is addressed. However, in recent years there has been a bias in ironic and even sarcastic intonation. In this case, the expression turns out to be mocking and as if levels the merits of a person. For example, “lowering your entire salary in a casino is worth a lot” clearly indicates the skepticism of the speaker.
When and how to use?
Always distinguish between goods and intangibles. Speak “expensively” only when you are asking the price and are ready to shell out money. Express emotions at the same time brightly, but without impurity of an estimation. The phrase allows you to thank a person for the work done and diligence, and at the same time not to praise. It has incredible educational potential.