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Anonymous Posted 18 years ago
Grammar

valuable and precious

Hi,
1.The crown was set with precious /valuable jewels.

2.She loved dressing up and wearing precious/valuable jewels.

Should we use 'precious' or 'valuable' in the above sentences?
What would be the difference if we can use either of them? Thanks!
  

Top answer

Hi, There's not always a difference, but consider this. Photos of my children when they were small are precious to me. But they are not valuable.

— Clive

  • Hi, There's not always a difference, but consider this.
  • Photos of my children when they were small are precious to me.
  • But they are not valuable.
  • I can't sell them, and no-one will buy them.
  • Best wishes, Clive
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6 Answers
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Hi,

There's not always a difference, but consider this.

Photos of my children when they were small are precious to me. But they are not valuable. I can't sell them, and no-one will buy them.

Best wishes, Clive
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Hi Clive,

Thank you for your reply.
In my two examples, if the jewels here cost a lot of money and this is only thing I want to express, should I use 'precious' or 'valuable' with jewels here?

Thanks a lot.
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Hi,
I'd say 'valuable'.

Clive
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Hi Clive,

Thank you very much for your answer to my question. What does it mean if I use 'precious' in "The crown was set with precious jewels"?

Thanks a lot.
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Hi,
Of great and exceptional value, very special, and prized by people.

Best wishes, Clive
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Hi Clive,

I understand! Many thanks!
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