unearned

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.

But there is no law for those wearing unearned medals - or those who simply lie about their background without dressing up in uniform.

From BBC • Jan. 21, 2026

She said some of the women were reluctant to come forward, fearing their degrees or affiliations would be seen as unearned.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 14, 2026

Initially, it was planned for Season 4, and we just felt it was unearned by the end of it.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 25, 2025

By September 2025, Booker announced their engagement on Instagram, calling her “one of the greatest unearned blessings of my life.”

From Salon • Nov. 30, 2025

Cancer Perks are the little things cancer kids get that regular kids don’t: basketballs signed by sports heroes, free passes on late homework, unearned driver’s licenses, etc.

From "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green