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Showing results for deserve. Search instead for deferve.
Definitions

deserve

[dih-zurv] / dɪˈzɜrv /
VERB
be entitled to
Synonyms
STRONGEST
earn gain get justify merit warrant win
STRONG
demand procure rate
WEAK
be given one's due be in line for be worthy of get comeuppance get what is coming to one have it coming have the right to lay claim to
Antonyms
STRONGEST
fail forfeit lose miss pass spend

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“You deserve better from Sacramento, and I’ll work with you to make sure we deliver it.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

"We don't deserve this, it's not fair. I'm sorry I couldn't make it happen," Gattuso said, eyes glistening, before retreating to the dressing room.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

Those who put their lives on the line deserve the highest honor.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

ExpressVPN says it still maintains its no-logs policy and operates independently, but you deserve to know who’s behind your VPN.

From Salon • Mar. 30, 2026

He tumbled sideways, cursed a bit, and decided the cat was not his friend and did not deserve a name after all.

From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.