Self-worth

n.kind, resilientwarm

What it means

A person's sense that their life and dignity have value independent of performance or approval.

Reach for it when naming inherent personal value rather than confidence about a particular skill

The mentor protected each student's self-worth while giving direct criticism.

everyday
self-value
when a transparent plain-language paraphrase helps
not when The phrase is less established and can sound transactional.
everyday
sense of value
when context already makes the personal subject clear
not when The phrase may refer to usefulness or price rather than human dignity.
warm
self-respect
when dignity shapes boundaries and conduct
not when Self-respect includes standards for action rather than value alone.
professional
self-esteem
when a broad evaluation of oneself is the psychological concept
not when Esteem can rise with achievement, while worth should not depend on rank.
professional
self-regard
when the general attitude toward oneself is under discussion
not when Self-regard can become vanity and is emotionally cooler.
formal
dignity
when inherent standing and humane treatment are central
not when Dignity can be an external right even when a person's felt worth is low.
literary
inner worth
when value independent of outward success needs emphasis
not when Inner worth can imply a hidden virtue that still must be demonstrated.

sense of self-worth
A stable sense of self-worth made honest revision feel possible.
protect self-worth
Good coaching can protect self-worth without withholding standards.
self-worth grows
Her self-worth grows from belonging, reflection, and humane treatment.

Self-worth is not productivity, popularity, beauty, or moral perfection.

The definition and the example on this page are written here. The dictionaries above ground which meaning is being described, not the wording.