values

word · lemma: value

/ˈvæɫjuz/
VAL-yooz
/vˈæljuːz/
VAL-yooz

Definition

Values are the beliefs and principles that guide how a person or group thinks, chooses, and behaves. It can also mean the importance, usefulness, or numerical amount of something, depending on context.

Usage & Nuances

Very common in discussions about family, culture, education, religion, and business: 'traditional values', 'shared values', 'core values'. In math or data, 'values' means numbers or amounts. Don't confuse moral 'values' with prices, although both come from 'value'.

Example Sentences

If those values look off, check the data again before we present it.

natural

My parents taught me strong values.

basic

These values are too high for this chart.

basic

The school teaches respect and other values.

basic

We may disagree on politics, but we still share the same core values.

natural

The company says its values come first, but employees don't always feel that.

natural