deserved
An earned reward or praise that someone received because they did something good is what we mean by "deserved". Think of it like this: if you study hard and get an A on your test, you've earned that grade and it's well-deserved.
When we say that someone deserved the prize or compliment, we're usually talking about how their actions led to the reward. For example, "She deserved a break after working such long hours" means that her hard work made her deserving of rest. Sometimes, people might even say something like "He deserved better treatment from his boss", implying that they should have been treated more kindly because of their efforts or character.
How common is "deserved"?
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.
verb
To be entitled to, as a result of past actions; to be worthy to have.
Example: After playing so well, the team really deserved their win.
Real examples of "deserved" in context
