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A1 noun #1,200 most common 8 min read

価値

kachi Top 1,200

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 価値 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 価値 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should learn 価値 (kachi) as a simple noun meaning 'value.' You will mostly use it in basic sentences to say that something is 'good' or 'valuable' using the phrase 価値がある (kachi ga aru). At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex philosophical meanings. Think of it as a way to say something is 'worth it.' For example, if you see a beautiful souvenir, you might say it has value. You will also see it in very basic contexts like 'the value of this coin.' The focus is on recognizing the kanji and understanding that it relates to how much something is worth. You might also encounter it in the context of games or simple stories where characters find 'valuable' items. Remember, 'kachi' is the thing itself (the value), and 'aru' means 'to have' or 'to exist.' So, 'kachi ga aru' literally means 'value exists.' This is the most common way to use the word in daily life. You should also learn to distinguish it from 'nedan' (price), which is a more common word for beginners. While 'nedan' is about money, 'kachi' is about how good or important something is. Even at A1, knowing this word helps you express more than just 'I like this' or 'This is expensive.' It allows you to start evaluating things based on their merit. Practice saying 'Kore wa kachi ga arimasu' (This is valuable) to get used to the sound and structure. It is a solid building block for your Japanese vocabulary.

At the A2 level, you can start using 価値 (kachi) in more varied sentence structures. You should be able to describe things as having 'high value' (価値が高い - kachi ga takai) or 'low value' (価値が低い - kachi ga hikui). You will also learn to use it with the particle 'no' to describe other nouns, such as 価値のある本 (kachi no aru hon), which means 'a valuable book.' At this level, you might start hearing the word in the context of hobbies or travel. For instance, you could say a certain experience was 'worth the time' or 'worth the effort.' You are also beginning to see the word in compound forms, though you don't need to master them all yet. One important concept is that 'kachi' can be subjective. What has value to you might not have value to someone else. You can practice expressing this by saying 'Watashi ni totte, kore wa kachi ga arimasu' (For me, this has value). This level also introduces the idea of 'worth doing' something. By using the pattern [Verb stem] + 価値がある, you can say things like 'Miru kachi ga aru' (worth seeing). This is a very useful phrase when talking about movies, places to visit, or books. You should also be aware of the negative form, 'kachi ga nai' (has no value), which is used to dismiss something as unimportant. As you progress through A2, try to use 'kachi' to explain *why* you like something, moving beyond simple adjectives. It adds a layer of sophistication to your speaking and writing.

At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 価値 (kachi) in both social and professional contexts. You will start to encounter the word 価値観 (kachikan), which means 'values' or 'one's sense of value.' This is a very important word in Japanese culture, often used when discussing relationships, work-life balance, or generational differences. You might say 'Kachikan ga chigau' (Our values are different) to explain a disagreement. At B1, you are also expected to understand how 'kachi' is used in the media. You will hear it in news reports about the economy, such as the 'value of the yen' (en no kachi) or 'stock value' (kabuka no kachi). You should also be able to use verbs like 認める (mitomeru - to recognize) or 高める (takameru - to increase) with 'kachi.' For example, 'Kachi wo takameru' means 'to increase the value.' This is common in business discussions about branding or product improvement. You will also see 'kachi' used in more abstract ways, such as the 'value of life' (inochi no kachi) or the 'value of freedom' (jiyuu no kachi). Your ability to use 'kachi' in these abstract sentences shows that you are moving toward intermediate proficiency. You should also be able to distinguish 'kachi' from similar words like 'igi' (significance) and 'juuyousei' (importance). While 'kachi' is about worth, 'igi' is about meaning. Understanding these nuances will help you participate in more complex conversations and understand more challenging texts. Practice writing short paragraphs about what you value in life using these terms.

At the B2 level, your use of 価値 (kachi) should reflect a deeper understanding of its economic and philosophical nuances. You will frequently encounter compound words like 付加価値 (fuka-kachi - added value), 資産価値 (shisan-kachi - asset value), and 利用価値 (riyou-kachi - utility value). These terms are essential for business Japanese and for understanding complex news articles. You should be able to discuss how a company creates 'added value' for its customers or how the 'asset value' of a property might change over time. In terms of grammar, you will use 'kachi' in more complex clauses, such as 'Kachi wo miidasu' (to find value in something) or 'Kachi wo souzou suru' (to create value). You will also encounter the concept of 価値判断 (kachi-handan - value judgment), which is crucial in academic and critical writing. At this level, you should be able to argue for or against the value of a specific policy, artistic work, or social trend. You will also notice that 'kachi' is often used in the passive voice in formal contexts, such as 'Kachi ga mitomerarete iru' (Its value is recognized). Your vocabulary should also include synonyms like 'neuchi' and you should know when to use them appropriately. For instance, 'neuchi' is often used for the appraised value of antiques, while 'kachi' is more general. You should be able to read and understand editorials that discuss the 'changing values of society' (shakai no kachikan no henka). This level requires you to use 'kachi' not just as a noun, but as a central concept in logical arguments and detailed descriptions.

At the C1 level, you should have a sophisticated command of 価値 (kachi) and its related concepts. You will use it to discuss high-level topics such as 普遍的価値 (fuhenteki kachi - universal value), 存在価値 (sonzai kachi - the value of one's existence), and 対価 (taika - compensation/equivalent value). You should be able to engage in philosophical debates about whether value is inherent or socially constructed. In professional settings, you will use 'kachi' to discuss strategic positioning, such as 'kachi teiki' (value proposition) or 'kachi rensa' (value chain). Your understanding of the word should extend to its use in literature and classical contexts, where it might appear in more archaic or specialized forms. You should also be sensitive to the rhetorical use of 'kachi' in speeches and persuasive writing. For example, a politician might speak about the 'kachi' of traditional culture to evoke a sense of national identity. At this level, you should be able to nuance your language by using 'kachi' alongside terms like 妥当性 (datousei - validity) and 正当性 (seitousei - legitimacy). You should also be able to understand and use idioms or set phrases that involve 'kachi,' such as 'kachi ga sagaru' (to lose value) in a metaphorical sense. Your ability to translate 'kachi' into English (and vice versa) should be precise, choosing between 'value,' 'worth,' 'merit,' 'utility,' or 'significance' based on the specific context. You should be able to write long-form essays or reports that center on the evaluation of value in various domains, from economics to ethics, with a high degree of fluency and accuracy.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 価値 (kachi) is near-native. You understand the word's deepest connotations and can use it with extreme precision in any context. You are familiar with the historical evolution of the concept of 'value' in Japanese thought and how it relates to Western philosophical traditions. You can effortlessly use highly specialized terms like 価値中立 (kachi chuuritsu - value neutrality) in sociological discussions or 価値相対主義 (kachi soutai shugi - value relativism) in philosophical discourse. Your speech and writing reflect a nuanced grasp of how 'kachi' interacts with Japanese social hierarchy and etiquette. For instance, you know how to humbly downplay the 'kachi' of a gift you are giving ('Tsumaranai mono desu ga...') while recognizing the high 'kachi' of someone else's contribution. You can analyze complex legal or economic documents where the definition of 'value' is a point of contention. You are also able to appreciate the word's use in poetry and high literature, where it might be used to explore the ephemeral nature of worth. At this level, you are not just using the word; you are manipulating it to achieve specific stylistic and rhetorical effects. You can provide expert-level explanations of the word to others, including its etymology, its role in compound words, and its subtle differences from synonyms. Your command of 'kachi' is such that you can participate in any professional or academic environment in Japan, contributing meaningfully to discussions where the evaluation of value is central. You are a master of the word's multifaceted nature, from its most literal economic sense to its most profound existential implications.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

価値 in 30 Seconds

Kachi (価値) means 'value' or 'worth' in Japanese, covering both monetary price and abstract importance like moral merit or practical utility in daily life.
It is commonly used in the phrase 'kachi ga aru' (to have value) and can be applied to objects, experiences, and personal beliefs or worldviews.
The word is essential for discussing economics, art, and relationships, where 'kachikan' (values) plays a major role in understanding people's different perspectives and choices.
Grammatically, it functions as a noun and is often paired with adjectives like 'takai' (high) or 'hikui' (low) to describe the level of worth.

The Japanese word 価値 (かち - kachi) is a fundamental noun that translates most directly to 'value,' 'worth,' or 'merit' in English. It is a compound word formed by two kanji characters: 価 (price, value) and 値 (price, cost, value). Together, they create a concept that encompasses both the tangible, monetary worth of an object and the intangible, abstract importance of an idea, action, or person. In Japanese society, understanding the 'kachi' of something is not just about checking a price tag; it involves a deep appreciation for the utility, beauty, and moral significance of the subject at hand.

Monetary Value: This refers to the market price or the economic worth of goods and services. For example, the fluctuating value of gold or real estate is described using this term.

Intrinsic Worth: This describes the internal merit of something, such as the educational value of a book or the sentimental value of a family heirloom that might not have a high market price.

Social and Moral Value: This pertains to the principles and standards that a society or individual holds dear, often seen in the compound word 価値観 (kachikan), meaning one's 'values' or 'worldview.'

この絵画には、歴史的な価値があります。(This painting has historical value.)

時間の価値を忘れてはいけません。(You must not forget the value of time.)

その経験は、お金以上の価値がある。(That experience is worth more than money.)

新しい発見は、科学的な価値が高い。(New discoveries have high scientific value.)

彼は自分の価値を証明した。(He proved his own worth.)

People use this word in professional settings to discuss market trends, in educational settings to discuss the importance of subjects, and in personal conversations to express what they find meaningful in life. It is a versatile word that bridges the gap between the material world and the world of philosophy and ethics.

Using 価値 correctly requires understanding its grammatical role as a noun and its common collocations with verbs and adjectives. The most frequent structure is 'Noun + の + 価値' (the value of Noun) or 'Noun + には + 価値がある' (Noun has value). Because it is a noun, it can serve as the subject, object, or part of a descriptive phrase. In more advanced usage, it is often paired with verbs like 'mitomeru' (to recognize) or 'miidasu' (to find/discover).

Describing High Value: To say something is very valuable, you can use '価値が高い' (kachi ga takai) or '価値がある' (kachi ga aru). For extreme value, '非常に高い価値' (hijou ni takai kachi) is appropriate.

Describing Low Value: Conversely, '価値が低い' (kachi ga hikui) or '価値がない' (kachi ga nai) are used for things that lack worth or are considered useless in a specific context.

Expressing Personal Values: When talking about what you believe is important, the term '価値観' (kachikan) is used. For example, '価値観が合う' (kachikan ga au) means having similar values to someone else.

この古銭には、驚くべき価値がついた。(A surprising value was placed on this old coin.)

失敗から学ぶことには、大きな価値がある。(There is great value in learning from failure.)

彼は芸術の価値を認めていない。(He does not recognize the value of art.)

不動産の価値が下がっている。(The value of real estate is decreasing.)

ブランドの価値を高めるための戦略。(A strategy to increase the brand's value.)

In academic writing, 'kachi' is often used in the context of 'kachi-handan' (value judgment), where one evaluates the worth of a theory or a historical event based on specific criteria. Understanding these patterns allows you to transition from simple observations to complex evaluations.

The word 価値 is ubiquitous in Japanese life, appearing in diverse contexts ranging from high-stakes business negotiations to casual conversations about hobbies. If you are watching a Japanese news program, you will frequently hear it in reports about the economy, stock market fluctuations, or the 'asset value' (shisan kachi) of various investments. In the world of entertainment, critics use it to discuss the 'entertainment value' of a new film or game.

In the Workplace: Managers often talk about 'kachi wo dasu' (producing value) or 'kachi wo teiki suru' (providing value) to customers. It is a key term in marketing and product development meetings.

In Education and Self-Help: Teachers and mentors use 'kachi' to encourage students to find meaning in their studies. Self-help books in Japan often focus on 'jiko-kachi' (self-worth) and how to improve it.

In Art and Antiques: On popular TV shows like 'Nandemo鑑定団' (The Anything Appraisal Group), experts determine the 'kachi' of old pottery, paintings, and toys, often shocking the owners with high or low valuations.

このサービスは顧客に高い価値を提供します。(This service provides high value to customers.)

あなたの努力は、言葉にできないほどの価値があります。(Your efforts have an indescribable value.)

市場の価値は常に変動しています。(Market value is constantly fluctuating.)

この本は、一生持ち続ける価値がある。(This book is worth keeping for a lifetime.)

それは、議論する価値もない。(That is not even worth discussing.)

Whether you are reading a financial report or a philosophical essay, 'kachi' serves as the anchor for evaluating the world around you.

While 価値 is a common word, English speakers often make specific errors when translating it directly or applying it in Japanese social contexts. The most frequent mistake is using 'kachi' when 'nedan' (price) or 'kakaku' (cost) is intended. While 'kachi' represents the abstract worth, 'nedan' is the specific number of yen you pay.

Confusing Value with Price: Saying 'Kono kachi wa nan-en desu ka?' (How many yen is this value?) is incorrect. You should say 'Kono nedan wa nan-en desu ka?' or 'Kore wa ikura desu ka?'

Misusing 'Kachi ga aru' for People: While you can say someone has 'kachi' as a person, doing so in a purely utilitarian way can sound cold or dehumanizing. It is better to use 'yuunou' (capable) or 'subarashii' (wonderful) to describe people unless you are specifically discussing their professional 'market value.'

Overusing the Term: In English, we often say 'That's valuable information.' In Japanese, 'yuueki na jouhou' (beneficial information) is often more natural than 'kachi no aru jouhou,' though both are technically correct.

❌ このリンゴの価値は100円です。(The value of this apple is 100 yen - sounds too formal/stilted.)

✅ このリンゴの値段は100円です。(The price of this apple is 100 yen.)

❌ 彼は価値がある友達です。(He is a valuable friend - sounds like you are appraising him.)

✅ 彼は大切な友達です。(He is a precious/important friend.)

❌ その映画は見る価値がありますか？ (Is that movie worth seeing? - Correct, but 'omoshiroi' is more common.)

Avoiding these pitfalls will help you sound more natural and respectful in your Japanese communication.

To truly master 価値, it is helpful to compare it with other words that occupy the same semantic space. Japanese has several terms for 'worth' and 'importance,' each with its own nuance and level of formality.

価値 (Kachi) vs. 値打ち (Neuchi): 'Kachi' is the standard, broad term. 'Neuchi' is slightly more old-fashioned or specific to the appraised value of objects like antiques or craftsmanship. You might say an old vase has 'neuchi' but a scientific theory has 'kachi.'

価値 (Kachi) vs. 意義 (Igi): 'Igi' refers to the 'significance' or 'meaning' of an action. While 'kachi' is about worth, 'igi' is about the purpose or the reason why something is important. 'Sono shigoto ni wa igi ga aru' means the work is meaningful/significant.

価値 (Kachi) vs. 重要性 (Juuyousei): 'Juuyousei' simply means 'importance.' It is used when something is critical or necessary, whereas 'kachi' implies an evaluation of merit.

このダイヤモンドは非常に値打ちがある。(This diamond is very valuable/has high appraisal.)

ボランティア活動には深い意義があります。(Volunteer activities have deep significance.)

安全対策の重要性を強調する。(Emphasize the importance of safety measures.)

その情報は非常に有益です。(That information is very beneficial/useful.)

この本は一読の価値がある。(This book is worth a read.)

Expanding your vocabulary with these synonyms will allow you to express the concept of 'value' with greater precision and cultural awareness.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"本件の学術的価値は極めて高いと存じます。"

Neutral

"この本は読む価値がありますよ。"

Informal

"それ、まじで価値あるよ！"

Child friendly

"このおもちゃは、とっても大切（価値がある）なんだよ。"

Slang

"あの動画、見る価値ナシ。"

Fun Fact

The character 価 is a simplified version of 價. In ancient times, it depicted a person and a shell (which was used as currency), signifying the value a person places on money.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈkætʃi/

US /ˈkɑːtʃi/

Japanese is a pitch-accent language. In 'kachi,' the pitch usually starts high on 'ka' and drops on 'chi' (Atamadaka accent).

Rhymes With

Machi (town) Hachi (eight) Kachi (victory - homophone with different pitch) Tachi (stand) Sachi (happiness) Kochi (east wind) Michi (road) Tsuchi (earth)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'chi' like 'she'. It should be a sharp 'ch' sound.
Elongating the vowels. Both 'a' and 'i' are short.
Misplacing the pitch accent, making it sound like 'win' (kachi - 勝ち), which has a different pitch pattern.
Adding a 'u' sound at the end (kachiu).
Confusing the 'ka' sound with 'ga'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The kanji are common but require some practice for beginners.

Writing 3/5

The kanji characters have several strokes but follow standard radicals.

Speaking 2/5

The pronunciation is simple, but the pitch accent is important.

Listening 2/5

Easy to hear, but must be distinguished from 'kachi' (victory).

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

高い (High) 低い (Low) ある (To exist) 値段 (Price) 大切 (Important)

Learn Next

評価 (Evaluation) 意義 (Significance) 尊重 (Respect) 基準 (Standard) 判断 (Judgment)

Advanced

axiology (価値論) 付加価値税 (VAT) 普遍的価値 (Universal value) 価値中立 (Value neutrality) 対価 (Quid pro quo)

Grammar to Know

Verb (Dictionary Form) + 価値がある

この本は読む価値がある。(This book is worth reading.)

Noun + の + 価値

時間の価値を考える。(Think about the value of time.)

価値 + のある + Noun

価値のある経験。(A valuable experience.)

Noun + には + 価値がある

これには価値がある。(This has value.)

価値 + が + [Adjective]

価値が高い。(Value is high.)

Examples by Level

この本は価値があります。

This book has value.

Subject + は + 価値 + があります (has value).

価値が高いおもちゃです。

It is a high-value toy.

価値 + が + 高い (is high) + Noun.

時間の価値は大切です。

The value of time is important.

Noun + の + 価値 (value of Noun).

これには価値がない。

This has no value.

Noun + には + 価値 + がない (has no value).

価値のあるプレゼント。

A valuable present.

価値 + のある (valuable) + Noun.

水の価値を知っていますか？

Do you know the value of water?

Noun + の + 価値 + を + 知っていますか (Do you know...).

それは100円の価値です。

That is 100 yen's worth of value.

Amount + の + 価値 (worth of Amount).

価値を見つけましょう。

Let's find the value.

価値 + を + 見つけましょう (Let's find).

この映画は見る価値があります。

This movie is worth seeing.

Verb (dictionary form) + 価値がある (worth doing).

彼は自分の価値を信じている。

He believes in his own worth.

Possessive + 価値 + を + 信じている (believes in).

古い切手には価値が出ることもある。

Old stamps can sometimes become valuable.

価値 + が + 出る (value appears/becomes valuable).

その経験は、お金以上の価値がある。

That experience is worth more than money.

Noun + 以上の + 価値 (value more than Noun).

価値が低いものは買いません。

I don't buy things with low value.

価値 + が + 低い (is low) + Noun.

この情報の価値は高い。

The value of this information is high.

Noun + の + 価値 + は + 高い (is high).

価値を認めてくれてありがとう。

Thank you for recognizing the value.

価値 + を + 認めて (recognizing) + くれる (doing for me).

それは試す価値がある方法だ。

That is a method worth trying.

Verb (dictionary form) + 価値がある + Noun.

私たちには共通の価値観があります。

We have common values.

価値観 (kachikan) means 'sense of value' or 'values'.

円の価値が下がっています。

The value of the yen is falling.

Noun + の + 価値 + が + 下がる (value falls).

このプロジェクトの価値を高めたい。

I want to increase the value of this project.

価値 + を + 高める (to increase value).

彼は芸術的な価値を理解している。

He understands artistic value.

Adjective + な + 価値 (Adjectival value).

失敗には、成功と同じくらいの価値がある。

Failure has as much value as success.

Noun + と同じくらいの + 価値 (value about the same as Noun).

価値観の違いで別れました。

We broke up due to a difference in values.

価値観 + の + 違い (difference in values).

その土地の価値を査定する。

Appraise the value of that land.

価値 + を + 査定する (to appraise value).

新しい価値を創造することが必要だ。

It is necessary to create new value.

価値 + を + 創造する (to create value).

付加価値の高いサービスを提供します。

We provide services with high added value.

付加価値 (fuka-kachi) means 'added value'.

不動産の資産価値を維持する。

Maintain the asset value of real estate.

資産価値 (shisan-kachi) means 'asset value'.

歴史的な価値が認められた建物。

A building whose historical value was recognized.

価値 + が + 認められた (value was recognized).

利用価値がなくなった道具を捨てる。

Throw away tools that no longer have utility value.

利用価値 (riyou-kachi) means 'utility value'.

彼の発言は、検討する価値が十分にある。

His statement is well worth considering.

Verb + 価値 + が + 十分にある (has plenty of value).

ブランド価値を損なわないように注意する。

Be careful not to damage the brand value.

ブランド価値 (burando kachi) means 'brand value'.

市場価値に見合った給与を求める。

Demand a salary consistent with market value.

市場価値 (shijou kachi) means 'market value'.

その発見は、学術的な価値が極めて高い。

The discovery has extremely high academic value.

学術的 (academic) + な + 価値 (value).

普遍的な価値を持つ芸術作品。

A work of art that possesses universal value.

普遍的 (universal) + な + 価値 (value).

自己の存在価値を見失ってはいけない。

You must not lose sight of the value of your own existence.

存在価値 (sonzai kachi) means 'value of existence'.

労働の対価として賃金を受け取る。

Receive wages as compensation for labor.

対価 (taika) means 'equivalent value' or 'compensation'.

価値判断を保留して、事実のみを述べる。

Withhold value judgments and state only the facts.

価値判断 (kachi handan) means 'value judgment'.

企業の社会的価値が問われている。

The social value of corporations is being questioned.

社会的価値 (shakaiteki kachi) means 'social value'.

情報の真偽と価値を精査する。

Scrutinize the truth and value of information.

価値 + を + 精査する (to scrutinize value).

それは、一考の価値だにしない提案だ。

That is a proposal not even worth a single thought.

一考の価値だにしない (not even worth a thought).

文化的な価値を次世代に継承する。

Inherit cultural value to the next generation.

文化的な価値 (cultural value).

価値中立的な立場から分析を行う。

Conduct an analysis from a value-neutral standpoint.

価値中立的 (kachi chuuritsuteki) means 'value-neutral'.

価値相対主義の功罪について論じる。

Discuss the merits and demerits of value relativism.

価値相対主義 (kachi soutai shugi) means 'value relativism'.

その政策は、多次元的な価値を内包している。

The policy encompasses multi-dimensional values.

多次元的な価値 (multi-dimensional value).

市場の歪みが、本来の価値を覆い隠している。

Market distortions are obscuring the true value.

本来の価値 (true/original value).

自己実現こそが、至高の価値であると説く。

Preach that self-actualization is the supreme value.

至高の価値 (supreme value).

価値の転換が求められる時代に生きている。

We live in an era where a shift in values is required.

価値の転換 (shift/transformation of values).

美学的価値と実用的価値の相克。

The conflict between aesthetic value and practical value.

相克 (soukoku) means 'conflict' or 'rivalry'.

無価値なものの中に、新たな価値を見出す。

Find new value within things that are worthless.

無価値 (mukachi) means 'worthless'.

Synonyms

値打ち重要性真価有用性メリット

Antonyms

無価値無用

Common Collocations

価値がある

価値を高める

価値を認める

価値が高い

価値を見出す

価値が下がる

価値を損なう

価値を共有する

価値を置く

価値を判定する

Common Phrases

価値観 (Kachikan)

— One's sense of values or worldview. It describes what a person thinks is important in life.

価値観が合う人と結婚したい。(I want to marry someone whose values align with mine.)

付加価値 (Fuka-kachi)

— Added value. Extra features or benefits that increase a product's worth.

この商品には高い付加価値がある。(This product has high added value.)

希少価値 (Kishou-kachi)

— Rarity value. Worth that comes from being rare or hard to find.

この切手は希少価値が高い。(This stamp has high rarity value.)

存在価値 (Sonzai-kachi)

— The value of one's existence or the reason for being.

自分の存在価値を証明したい。(I want to prove the value of my existence.)

利用価値 (Riyou-kachi)

— Utility value. How useful something is for a specific purpose.

この古いパソコンもまだ利用価値がある。(This old PC still has utility value.)

資産価値 (Shisan-kachi)

— Asset value. The monetary worth of property or investments.

マンションの資産価値を調べる。(Check the asset value of the apartment.)

絶対的価値 (Zettaiteki-kachi)

— Absolute value. Worth that does not change regardless of context.

それは絶対的な価値を持っている。(That has absolute value.)

相対的価値 (Soutaiteki-kachi)

— Relative value. Worth that depends on comparison with other things.

価値は常に相対的だ。(Value is always relative.)

一読の価値あり (Ichidoku no kachi ari)

— Worth a read. A common phrase used to recommend a book or article.

このコラムは一読の価値ありだ。(This column is worth a read.)

価値判断 (Kachi-handan)

— Value judgment. An assessment based on one's own values rather than objective facts.

価値判断を抜きにして話そう。(Let's talk without making value judgments.)

Often Confused With

価値 vs 値段 (Nedan)

Nedan is the specific price tag; Kachi is the underlying worth. You pay the 'nedan' for the 'kachi'.

価値 vs 勝ち (Kachi)

Homophone meaning 'victory.' Distinguished by context and pitch accent.

価値 vs 意義 (Igi)

Igi is the 'meaning' or 'purpose' of an action, while Kachi is its 'worth'.

Idioms & Expressions

"価値千金 (Kachi senkin)"

— Extremely valuable, worth a thousand pieces of gold.

その一言は価値千金だった。(That one word was worth a thousand gold pieces.)

Literary/Formal

"二束三文 (Nisoku sanmon)"

— Worthless, dirt cheap (literally 'two bundles for three mon').

古い本を売ったが、二束三文だった。(I sold old books, but they were worth next to nothing.)

Idiomatic/Casual

"豚に真珠 (Buta ni shinju)"

— Pearls before swine. Giving something valuable to someone who doesn't appreciate it.

彼に高級ワインをあげるのは豚に真珠だ。(Giving him expensive wine is like pearls before swine.)

Common Idiom

"猫に小判 (Neko ni koban)"

— Gold coins to a cat. Similar to 'pearls before swine.'

最新のパソコンを祖母に贈るのは猫に小判だ。(Giving the latest PC to my grandma is like gold coins to a cat.)

Common Idiom

"ダイヤモンドの原石 (Daiyamondo no genseki)"

— A diamond in the rough. Someone with great potential value who hasn't been polished yet.

彼はまだ新人だが、ダイヤモンドの原石だ。(He is still a rookie, but he's a diamond in the rough.)

Metaphorical

"骨折り損のくたびれ儲け (Honeori zon no kutabire mouke)"

— All work and no play/Great effort for no reward (loss of effort, gain of tiredness).

準備したのに中止になり、骨折り損のくたびれ儲けだった。(We prepared but it was cancelled; it was all effort for nothing.)

Proverbial

"安物買いの銭失い (Yasumono gai no zeni ushinai)"

— Penny wise, pound foolish. Buying cheap things and losing money in the long run.

すぐ壊れた。安物買いの銭失いだった。(It broke immediately. It was a waste of money on a cheap buy.)

Proverbial

"掃き溜めに鶴 (Hakidame ni tsuru)"

— A crane in a rubbish heap. Something very valuable or beautiful in a poor environment.

彼女はこの古いオフィスで、まさに掃き溜めに鶴だ。(In this old office, she is like a crane in a rubbish heap.)

Literary

"宝の持ち腐れ (Takara no mochigusare)"

— A wasted treasure. Having something valuable but not using it.

使わないなら、そのカメラは宝の持ち腐れだ。(If you don't use it, that camera is a wasted treasure.)

Common Idiom

"一刻千金 (Ikkoku senkin)"

— Every moment is precious (worth a thousand gold pieces).

試験前の時間は一刻千金だ。(Time before an exam is extremely precious.)

Literary

Easily Confused

価値 vs 価格 (Kakaku)

Both relate to value/price.

Kakaku is a formal word for 'price' or 'cost' used in business; Kachi is 'worth.'

価格は高いが、価値はある。(The price is high, but it has value.)

価値 vs 評価 (Hyouka)

Both involve determining worth.

Hyouka is the 'act' of evaluating or the 'result' (rating); Kachi is the 'quality' of worth itself.

高い評価が、その価値を証明している。(The high evaluation proves its value.)

価値 vs 重要 (Juuyou)

Both mean something is 'big.'

Juuyou is 'important' (necessary); Kachi is 'valuable' (merit-based).

重要な会議だが、価値は低い。(It's an important meeting, but the value is low.)

価値 vs 値打ち (Neuchi)

Both mean 'worth.'

Neuchi is more specific to appraised items and physical objects.

この骨董品は値打ちがある。(This antique has worth.)

価値 vs 利益 (Rieki)

Both relate to gain.

Rieki is 'profit' (money made); Kachi is 'value.'

利益は出ないが、価値はある仕事だ。(It makes no profit, but it's a valuable job.)

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] は価値があります。

この時計は価値があります。

[Verb-Dictionary] 価値がある [Noun] です。

これは見る価値がある映画です。

[Noun] の価値を高めるために [Action]。

商品の価値を高めるためにデザインを変える。

[Noun] に [Adjective] 価値を見出す。

古い建物に歴史的な価値を見出す。

[Noun] は [Noun] としての価値を損なっている。

その行為は、教育としての価値を損なっている。

[Abstract Noun] こそが [Noun] の至高の価値である。

自由こそが人間の至高の価値である。

価値観の相違により [Result]。

価値観の相違により、プロジェクトは中止された。

価値が [Verb-Potential]。

価値が上がります。

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written Japanese.

Common Mistakes

Using 'kachi' for 'price' in a store. → 値段 (Nedan) or 価格 (Kakaku).
You don't ask 'What is the value of this apple?' in a supermarket; you ask for the price.
Saying 'Kare wa kachi ga aru' to a friend. → 彼は大切な友達だ (Kare wa taisetsu na tomodachi da).
Using 'kachi' for people can sound cold or like you are measuring their utility.
Confusing 'kachi' (value) with 'kachi' (victory). → Check the kanji or pitch accent.
They sound similar but have different meanings and pitch patterns.
Using 'kachi' as a verb. → 価値を認める (Kachi wo mitomeru) or 大切にする (Taisetsu ni suru).
In Japanese, 'kachi' is only a noun. You cannot say 'I kachi this.'
Misusing 'kachikan' for a single value. → 価値 (Kachi) or 価値観 (Kachikan).
'Kachikan' refers to a whole system of values or a worldview, not just one specific thing you value.

Tips

Use with Verbs

Remember the pattern [Verb Dictionary Form] + 価値がある. It's the most common way to say something is 'worth doing.' Practice with 'yomu' (read), 'miru' (see), and 'iku' (go).

Value vs. Price

Never use 'kachi' when you are asking for the price in a shop. Use 'ikura' or 'nedan.' 'Kachi' is about the quality of being worth something, not the transaction amount.

Kachikan

In Japan, 'kachikan' is a very common topic in interviews and deep conversations. Knowing how to talk about your 'kachikan' will help you connect with Japanese people on a deeper level.

Particle Choice

Use 'ni wa' to emphasize the subject that has value: 'Kore ni wa kachi ga aru.' The 'wa' adds a bit of contrast or focus.

Compound Power

Learn compounds like 'shisan-kachi' (asset value) and 'kishou-kachi' (rarity value). They are very common in news and business.

Pitch Accent

Practice the 'Atamadaka' pitch (high then low) for 価値 to avoid confusing it with other words.

Kanji Practice

The kanji for 'kachi' are very useful. 'Ka' (価) appears in 'kakaku' (price), and 'chi' (値) appears in 'nedan' (price). Learning them helps with many other words.

Context Clues

If you hear 'kachi' followed by 'ga aru,' it almost always means 'value.' If it's followed by 'ni noru,' it might be 'kachi' (victory).

Cashy

Just remember: Kachi sounds like 'Cashy.' If it's cashy, it's valuable!

Value Judgment

Use 'kachi-handan' in debates to show you are talking about a subjective opinion rather than an objective fact.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Kachi' as 'Cash-y'. If something is 'cashy,' it has value or worth!

Visual Association

Imagine a gold coin (representing value) with the kanji 価値 engraved on it, glowing brightly.

Word Web

Money Importance Merit Price Ethics Art Time Self-worth

Challenge

Try to find three things in your room today and say 'Kore wa [Noun] no kachi ga aru' (This has the value of [Noun]).

Word Origin

The word 価値 (kachi) is a Sino-Japanese compound (kango). The first character 価 (ka) originally meant 'price' or 'value' of goods. The second character 値 (chi) also meant 'price' or 'level.'

Original meaning: The original meaning was strictly related to the price or monetary cost of items in a marketplace.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Cultural Context

Be careful when discussing the 'kachi' of people in a professional setting, as it can sound like you are treating them as commodities.

In English, 'value' is often used as a verb (I value your time), but in Japanese, 'kachi' is strictly a noun. You must use 'taisetsu ni suru' or 'omonjiru' to express the verb 'to value.'

The TV show 'Nandemo Kanteidan' (The Anything Appraisal Group). Soseki Natsume's novels often discuss the value of the individual vs. society. The concept of 'Ikigai' is essentially finding the 'kachi' in one's life.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Shopping/Economics

値段以上の価値がある (Worth more than the price)
価値が下がる (Value drops)
市場価値 (Market value)
資産価値 (Asset value)

Relationships

価値観が合う (Values align)
価値観の違い (Difference in values)
お互いの価値を認める (Recognize each other's worth)
大切な価値観 (Important values)

Education/Study

学ぶ価値がある (Worth learning)
教育の価値 (Value of education)
新しい価値を見出す (Find new value)
一読の価値あり (Worth a read)

Art/Antiques

歴史的価値 (Historical value)
芸術的価値 (Artistic value)
希少価値 (Rarity value)
価値を鑑定する (Appraise value)

Self-Reflection

自分の価値 (My own worth)
存在価値 (Value of existence)
価値のある人生 (A valuable life)
価値観を見直す (Review one's values)

Conversation Starters

"あなたにとって、一番価値があるものは何ですか？ (What is the most valuable thing to you?)"

"最近、価値観が変わったと感じることはありますか？ (Have you felt your values change recently?)"

"この映画は見る価値があると思いますか？ (Do you think this movie is worth seeing?)"

"仕事を選ぶとき、一番大切にする価値観は何ですか？ (What is the most important value when you choose a job?)"

"古いものに価値を感じますか、それとも新しいものが好きですか？ (Do you find value in old things, or do you prefer new ones?)"

Journal Prompts

今日、自分が「価値がある」と感じた瞬間について書いてください。 (Write about a moment today when you felt something was 'valuable.')

あなたの「価値観」を3つの言葉で表すと何ですか？その理由も教えてください。 (What three words describe your 'values'? Please explain why.)

お金では買えない価値があるものについて、あなたの考えを述べてください。 (State your thoughts on things that have value that money cannot buy.)

10年前と比べて、あなたの価値観はどう変わりましたか？ (How have your values changed compared to 10 years ago?)

「無駄」だと思われているものの中に、どんな価値を見出せますか？ (What kind of value can you find in things that are considered 'wasteful'?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but be careful. Saying 'Kare wa kachi ga aru' sounds like you are appraising him like an object. It's better to say 'Kare wa subarashii hito da' (He is a wonderful person) or 'Kare wa yuunou da' (He is capable). Use 'kachi' for people only in specific contexts like 'market value' in a job search.

'Kachi ga aru' is a predicate (This book is valuable). 'Kachi no aru' is an adjective phrase used before a noun (A valuable book). For example: 'Kono hon wa kachi ga aru' vs 'Kachi no aru hon wo yomu.'

It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings. The politeness depends on the verb you attach to it (e.g., 'aru' vs 'arimasu').

Use the word '価値観' (kachikan). Example: 'Watashi no kachikan' (My values).

Yes, 'kachi' (勝ち) means victory, but it is a different kanji. They are homophones. You can tell them apart by context: 'Value' is usually a noun, while 'victory' is often the stem of the verb 'katsu' (to win).

You can say 'Kachi ga nai' (There is no value) or 'Sono kachi wa nai' (It doesn't have that value). In casual speech, people also say 'muda da' (it's a waste).

It means 'added value.' It is a common business term referring to the extra worth a company adds to a product through processing or branding.

There is '価値づける' (kachizukeru), which means 'to evaluate' or 'to attach value to something,' but it is quite formal.

Yes, absolutely. 'Yuujou no kachi' (the value of friendship) is a perfectly natural expression.

Use '価値が高い' (kachi ga takai). For example: 'Kono jouhou wa kachi ga takai' (This information is high-value).