ENGLISH
REFERENCE

valuables

n. plural-only
B1 Intermediate US //ˈvæɫjəbəɫz// UK //vˈæljuːəbəlz// valu·ables

n. small things you own that are worth a lot of money, like jewelry, watches, or expensive electronics.

n. personal items of significant financial or sentimental worth. Usually refers to portable objects such as jewelry, cash, or small electronics.


SIMPLE

Please keep your valuables in the hotel safe.

CONTEXTUAL

The sign at the gym entrance reminds members not to leave valuables in their lockers overnight.

COMPLEX

While the insurance policy covers the structure of the home, high-value items like antiques and other valuables require a separate appraisal and additional coverage.

Synonyms
Usage

Takes plural verb agreement; almost exclusively used in the plural form when referring to a collection of expensive items.

Pitfall

He lost a valuable in the park.He lost a valuable item in the park.The word 'valuables' is a plural-only noun; the singular 'valuable' is an adjective and cannot be used as a count noun for a single object.

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