Has anyone ever told you that you are an asset?
Have you heard the word “asset” used in English conversation?
This is a common word that is actually really quite positive and uplifting.
We’re going to look at this word, how it fits into conversation, and what a positive way it can be used in making connections.
Today we have a listener question about this word.
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Hi ladies,
I struggle with the word asset, and I’m wondering if you can help me. I’m hearing asset a lot in crime movies and other shows and even interviews.
I know it has different meanings, but I’m just not sure I understand all of them. I think it’s like a valuable person or a valuable thing–but can you clarify that’s correct?
Thanks for your help,
Mateja
Defining The Word You Hear Used
Have you heard the word asset being used?
Our listener is right- there are many definitions to it.
Today we will briefly define this word and then focus on one definition which we commonly hear.
The various definitions to the word asset include a couple of things.
- An advantage: Something or someone useful, valuable. This is more the dictionary definition.
- Something you have that is worth something: This could apply to something like if you own your house or maybe expensive art.
- Military equipment: This is a lesser known definition but one that you should be aware of for this word.
Chances are that if you have heard it in crime shows because maybe people talk about assets like in the second definition.
We are going to focus on the first definition today as it’s typically the most common.
Talking About Value
So when you think about it, an asset is valuable and that’s a sort of advantage!
Again this word can be used appropriately about something or someone.
It’s important to be able to use this to connect with others because it helps you talk about yourself in a positive light.
This can be useful for a job interview, or if you talk about others in this way, it can help you connect , especially at work.
This can tend to sound like a very “business-y” term, and can therefore be helpful in a professional environment.
Using These In Perfect Examples
The best way to practice this is to listen to and then try using it in some examples.
Let’s look at some common examples.
- In a Job interview: You might hear someone ask you “What’s your greatest asset as a _(your job)____?” Read more about English interviews here.
- With a coworker: You might hear somebody say this as a way to pay you a compliment or say something kind or positive. “Your experience is a huge asset to our team. I’m looking forward to working with you on this project!”
- Outside of work: There are also times when you can use this in conversations to convey something positive in nature. This is still used to talk about value or something positive that you feel or experience in your life.
“I think the greatest asset of living in NYC is that you can get any kind of food you want at any time of day!”
“One of the major assets of having a gym nearby your house is the ability to spend less time commuting to your workout and having more time to work out!
These examples can really help to highlight the best ways to use it, both personally and professionally.
One Word Can Mean So Much
Overall, this is about expressing yourself in a way that makes you sound confident, even if you are talking about something or someone else.
Acknowledging that something is of value is so important.
If you are saying it about yourself, you are showing you believe you have a lot to offer (bonus phrase).
Just be careful you don’t sound too over confident because then it can come across in the wrong way.
If you say it about others, you are being positive and lifting others up (bonus phrase) which shows confidence as well!
Be sure to use it when you are genuine about it and it will be well received.
It’s always nice to hear somebody say that you are an asset!
Using This In A Role Play
This can also be quite useful when seeing it in a roleplay as well.
Here are a couple of roleplays that can really help to highlight this point.
L: I think she’s perfect for the job.
M: Yeah, and her greatest asset is that she has 10 more years of experience than the other applicants.
M: Are you going to travel anytime soon?
L: Yes, well that’s a huge asset of being an entrepreneur; you can make your own schedule.
L: I don’t know if I’m going to ever have the confidence to ride my bike in NYC.
M: Oh come on Lindsay, of course you can! You’re so brave. That’s one of your many great assets.
You can see how this word fits well into conversation, and now it’s your turn to try it out!
Takeaway
We focused on one definition but it’s the one that allows you to show that you have a lot to offer.
It can be helpful to use when talking about lifting others up.
This is so important for connection, and it will be quite useful in a professional setting too.
Practice using it and see how this one word can really convey a positive attitude and appreciation.
If you have any questions, please leave them below in the comments section.
We’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
