It worth it or It is worth it: Which Is Correct?

Updated 2026-10-03 · Which One Is Correct editorial team

Quick answer: The correct phrase is always it is worth it. Many writers mistakenly drop the verb is, creating a grammatical error. The verb connects the subject to its value, making the statement complete and understandable for your readers.

The Short Answer

it is worth it is the only correct form; it worth it is missing the verb.

People often confuse these because casual speech frequently drops small linking verbs. In text messages or quick notes, the is disappears, but formal writing requires the full structure to show proper subject-verb agreement.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Form	Status	Use it when
it is worth it	Correct	Writing complete sentences with a subject and verb
it worth it	Incorrect	Never use this in any context
Verb	Linking	Connecting the subject to its description or value
Subject	It	Referring to a specific thing or idea previously mentioned

Correct Example Sentences

The long hike was tiring, but the view made it is worth it.
Saving money takes patience, but the reward is worth it.
Is the extra cost worth it for better quality?
It is worth it to invest in good tools.
The effort is worth it when you see the results.
It is worth it to read that book twice.
Traveling far is worth it for this festival.
It is worth it to wait for the discount.
The hard work is worth it in the end.
It is worth it to take the time to learn.

Common Mistakes and Fixes

The trip was long, but it worth it.: The trip was long, but it is worth it.
Do you think it worth it to buy?: Do you think it is worth it to buy?
The project is hard, yet it worth it.: The project is hard, yet it is worth it.
Is this gadget worth it or not?: Is this gadget is worth it or not?
I doubt it worth it for beginners.: I doubt it is worth it for beginners.
The price is high, but it worth it.: The price is high, but it is worth it.

A Quick Test You Can Use

Check if your sentence has a working verb that links the subject to its value. If you can insert is without breaking the flow, you need it. A complete thought requires a verb to tell the reader how the subject relates to its worth or value.

Related Word Pairs

its vs it is: Use its for possession and it is for a subject with a verb.
you are vs your: Use you are for a person and your for ownership.
they are vs there: Use they are for people and there for a place.
we are vs were: Use we are for now and were for the past.
their vs they are: Use their for ownership and they are for people.

More Example Sentences

Eating healthy food is worth it for your long-term health.
It is worth it to call ahead and reserve a table.
The renovation was expensive, but it is worth it for the added value.
Learning a new language takes time, yet it is worth it.
It is worth it to buy the extended warranty on electronics.
Driving an extra mile is worth it to avoid the traffic jam.
It is worth it to proofread your essay before submitting it.
The concert tickets were pricey, but seeing them live was worth it.
It is worth it to spend an hour organizing your closet.
Researching the best route is worth it to save fuel.

Quick Practice

Is this expensive camera for a hobbyist?

worth it

It to learn how to cook simple meals.

is worth it

The long wait line was long, but the food was .

worth it

Do you think upgrading your phone is ?

worth it

It to double-check the address before mailing.

is worth it

The workout is tough, but the results are .

worth it

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drop is in casual texting?

While friends might understand you, dropping the verb creates a grammatical error. It is best to write it is worth it to maintain clarity and proper sentence structure in all communications.

Is it worth it or its worth it?

It is worth it is correct. Its shows possession, like its tail. You need the verb is to connect the subject it to the value worth it in the sentence.

Why is it worth it used so often?

This phrase evaluates value against cost or effort. People use it to justify decisions, comparing the benefit gained with the time, money, or energy spent to achieve that specific outcome.

Does it worth it sound natural?

No, it sounds broken because the verb is missing. Native speakers might say it quickly, but hearing it worth it without the is feels incomplete and incorrect to trained ears.