undeserved
/'ʌndi'zə:vd/
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.
Adjective
-
not deserved or earned
-
has an undeserved reputation as a coward
-
Khám phá thêm
Các từ liên quan
Từ tương tự
Từ chứa "undeserved"
Từ có nhắc đến "undeserved"
