undeserved

/'ʌndi'zə:vd/

Thân thiện

He has an undeserved reputation as a coward.

Definition

Adjective: - Not merited or earned: Used to describe something (such as praise, criticism, a reward, or a reputation) that is received without proper justification or without having done anything to warrant it.

Usage

The adjective "undeserved" is used to qualify a noun, indicating that the thing described was not rightfully earned or justified. It often carries a tone of unfairness.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "undeservedly" (adverb): In a way that is not deserved.
  • He was undeservedly promoted ahead of more experienced colleagues.
• "undeservedness" (noun): The state or quality of being undeserved. (This form is rare but valid.)
  • The undeservedness of the award was apparent to everyone.

Variants and Related Words

• Unmerited: Very similar in meaning, often interchangeable with "undeserved."
• Unearned: Specifically implies not worked for; can be neutral (unearned income) while "undeserved" is usually negative or questioning fairness.
• Unjust: Focuses more on the violation of justice rather than the lack of merit.

Synonyms

• Unmerited
• Unwarranted
• Unjustified

Antonyms

• Deserved
• Merited
• Justified
• Earned

Idioms and Common Phrases

• An undeserved victory/win: A win that is considered lucky or unfair.
  • The controversial penalty led to an undeserved victory for the home team.
• Undeserved praise/criticism: Praise or criticism given without a valid basis.
  • She was uncomfortable with the undeserved praise heaped upon her.

Học thuật

Adjective

1. not deserved or earned
   • has an undeserved reputation as a coward