Deserving
/dɪˈzɜːrvɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsWorthy of praise, reward, or respect; meriting something.
/dɪˈzɜːrvɪŋ/
Worthy of reward or recognition.
The volunteers are very deserving of our gratitude for their hard work.
💡 Simply: Imagine you help an elderly person cross the street. You're *deserving* of a thank you because you were helpful and kind!
👶 For kids: If you do something good, like share your toys, you are deserving of a hug!
More Examples
He was deemed a deserving candidate for the promotion.
The company wanted to recognize and reward its most deserving employees.
How It's Used
"The charity provides support to deserving families in need."
"She was a deserving recipient of the scholarship."
Currently in the process of meriting or earning something, typically used in a continuous tense.
/dɪˈzɜːrvɪŋ/
Expressing the action of earning or meriting something.
The ongoing research is deserving of further funding.
💡 Simply: If someone is *deserving* of a raise at work, they're working hard and have earned it.
👶 For kids: If you are *deserving* of a treat, it means you have been good and earned it.
More Examples
Their performance in the competition was deserving of applause.
He believed the company was deserving of a complete overhaul.
How It's Used
"The defendant's actions, if proven, show behavior deserving of significant penalties."
"The film highlighted social injustices and the issues deserving serious consideration."
Idioms & expressions
deserving of praise
Worthy of commendation; meriting positive recognition.
"The team's performance was deserving of praise."
deserving of respect
Worthy of esteem or deference.
"She is a leader deserving of respect."
From Middle English *deservynge*, present participle of *deserven* (“to deserve”), from Old French *deservir* (“to deserve, merit”), from Latin *deservīre* (“to serve well, merit”).
The word 'deserving' has been used for centuries to indicate worthiness or merit. It has seen consistent usage throughout English literature and legal documents.
Memory tip
Think of someone who has done good deeds and merits recognition or a prize.