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- DictionaryDe·serve/dəˈzərv/
verb
- 1. do something or have or show qualities worthy of (reward or punishment): "the referee deserves a pat on the back for his bravery"
to have earned something or be given something because of your actions or qualities: [ T ] These charities deserve your support. [ + to infinitive ] The American people deserve to know what went wrong. [ T ] I hope those crooks get what they deserve (= receive a punishment that suits their crime).
to do something or show qualities that mean a particular reaction, reward or punishment is appropriate. deserve something You deserve a rest after all that hard work. The report deserves careful consideration. This idea deserves more attention. One player in particular deserves a mention.
Deserve is used in many ways, but it always carries a sense of balance or justice. If someone receives an award for their work, it means they deserve praise and attention. If you deserve a day off, it means you've been working hard and have earned a vacation.
May 19, 2024 · to merit, be qualified for, or have a claim to (reward, assistance, punishment, etc.) because of actions, qualities, or situation. to deserve exile. to deserve charity. a theory that deserves consideration. intransitive verb.
Definition of deserve verb in Oxford Advanced American Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
1. to merit, qualify for, or have a claim to (reward, punishment, aid, etc.) because of actions, qualities, or circumstances: to deserve a pay raise; to deserve exile. v.i. 2. to be worthy of, qualified for, or have a claim to reward, punishment, etc.: an idea deserving of study.
verb (used with object), de·served, de·serv·ing. to merit, be qualified for, or have a claim to (reward, assistance, punishment, etc.) because of actions, qualities, or situation: to deserve exile; to deserve charity; a theory that deserves consideration. verb (used without object), de·served, de·serv·ing.
