Meaning and Usage
"无价之宝" literally means "a treasure without price," referring to something or someone so valuable that no amount of money can quantify their worth. It is often used to describe precious family heirlooms, invaluable knowledge, or deeply cherished relationships.
Common Contexts
This phrase is frequently used in both formal and informal contexts to emphasize the irreplaceable value of an object or person. For example, a family painting passed down through generations or a mother's love can be called "无价之宝".
Collocations and Patterns
- 无价之宝 + noun: emphasizes the priceless nature of the noun (e.g., 无价之宝的艺术品 - priceless artwork).
- 视为无价之宝: to regard as a priceless treasure.
Nuances
Using "无价之宝" implies deep emotional or cultural value beyond monetary worth. It is not used for ordinary expensive items but for those with unique sentimental or irreplaceable significance.
Common Confusion
Do not confuse "无价之宝" with simply "贵重" (valuable). "无价之宝" stresses that the value cannot be measured by price, while "贵重" indicates high price or importance but still measurable.