B2verb2K

Deserve

UK /["/dɪˈzɜːv/","/dɪˈzɜːvz/","/dɪˈzɜːvd/","/dɪˈzɜːvɪŋ/"]/US /["/dɪˈzɜːrv/","/dɪˈzɜːrvz/","/dɪˈzɜːrvd/","/dɪˈzɜːrvɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to do something or show qualities that mean a particular reaction, reward or punishment is appropriate

In simple words: To be entitled to something good because of what you have done.

Examples

  • She worked hard all year, so she really deserves a vacation.
  • After everything he has done, I think he deserves a second chance.
  • No one deserves to be treated that way.
  • We believe that every child deserves an education.
  • He deserves recognition for his contributions to the team.

Usage notes

Use 'deserve' when talking about fairness or earning something. It's appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, but can sound too strong in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

deserve + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'de-server' — imagine a waiter who brings you the food you earn.

Collocations

  • certainly
  • definitely
  • really
  • for
  • deserve better
  • well deserved

Synonyms

  • merit
  • earn
  • be entitled to
  • be worthy of
  • rate

Antonyms

  • unworthy
  • meritless
  • undeserving

Common mistakes

  • 'Deserve' is often incorrectly used with abstract concepts instead of concrete rewards.
  • 'Deserve' is sometimes confused with 'merit' and used interchangeably when they don't mean the same.
  • Learners might use it incorrectly by saying 'I deserve to be happy' when referring to general feelings.