Meaning & use

be cherished

phrase·Everyday

Last updated

UK/biː ˈtʃer.ɪʃt/
US/bi ˈtʃer.ɪʃt/

Meaning

  1. phrasefixed phrase

    to be loved and valued deeply by someone, or to be kept with care because of its importance

    Grammar: This is the passive form of 'cherish'; it is used with 'be' and often followed by 'by someone' or 'as something'.

    Patterns

    • be cherished by someone
    • be cherished as something
    • be cherished for something

    Her grandmother's ring is cherished by everyone in the family.

    The old traditions are still cherished in this small village.

    He felt lucky to be cherished by such a kind partner.

Common combinations

be cherished by
The painting is cherished by art lovers around the world.
be cherished as
The diary is cherished as a record of daily life during the war.
be cherished for
She is cherished for her gentle humor and patience.
be cherished in
These songs are cherished in many countries.

Synonyms and how they differ

be treasured
Similar meaning, but 'treasured' often suggests something is kept safe because it is valuable, while 'cherished' focuses more on warm feelings of love.
be adored
Stronger and more emotional than 'cherished'; 'adored' means loved intensely and often openly.
be prized
Used more for objects or qualities that are considered very valuable, not usually for people.

Opposites

be neglectedbe despised

Word family

cherish verb
To love and care for someone or something deeply.
cherished adjective
Loved and valued very much; often used before a noun, e.g., 'a cherished memory'.

Commonly confused: be cherished or cherish?

be cherished vs cherish

The active verb 'cherish' takes an object (e.g., 'I cherish our friendship'), while 'be cherished' is passive and focuses on the person or thing receiving the love.

Practice

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