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.
Choose between these
7- 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
when dignity shapes boundaries and conduct
not when Self-respect includes standards for action rather than value alone.
- professional
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
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.
Said against
3- worthlessness
- self-contempt
- shame
It naturally appears in
3- 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.
Usage notes
Self-worth is not productivity, popularity, beauty, or moral perfection.