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Definitions

deserve

[dih-zurv] / dɪˈzɜrv /
VERB
be entitled to
Synonyms
STRONGEST
earn gain get justify merit warrant win
STRONG
demand procure rate
WEAK
be given one's due be in line for be worthy of get comeuppance get what is coming to one have it coming have the right to lay claim to
Antonyms
STRONGEST
fail forfeit lose miss pass spend

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

A common — and, in my opinion, boring — criticism of influencers as a whole is that the attention or money they receive is disproportionate to what they deserve.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

The Spaniard said his team are "very clear" why they lost to Southampton and believes they did not deserve to beaten.

From BBC • Apr. 6, 2026

This isn’t to say college athletes definitely don’t deserve to be compensated beyond the value of their scholarships.

From Salon • Apr. 5, 2026

Mexicans deserve the truth even if it’s inconvenient for Ms. Sheinbaum.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

“Yes, she is! She’s innocent! She doesn’t deserve this!”

From "The Manifestor Prophecy" by Angie Thomas

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.