Earned: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when something is obtained through hard work or effort. It often has a positive connotation, emphasizing that the result is deserved.

• She earned a promotion after years of dedication and hard work.
• He earned the respect of his colleagues.

Used when obtaining, gaining, or increasing something, such as experience, weight, or profit. It can have a somewhat neutral connotation but may also be used negatively depending on context.

• She gained a lot of experience from her internship.
• He gained some weight over the holidays.
• The company gained a significant market share.

Used when something is gained, obtained, or acquired, usually not emphasizing the effort involved. It can refer to both tangible and intangible things.

• He acquired a new set of skills over the summer.
• She acquired a taste for classical music.

Used when reaching a specific state, level, or condition, often highlighting the difficulty or milestones required to get there. It usually applies to abstract achievements.

• He attained the highest level in the game.
• She attained a level of expertise that few can match.

Used when someone successfully reaches a goal, especially through effort, skill, or courage. It often focuses more on the result rather than the effort.

• She achieved her dream of becoming a doctor.
• They achieved remarkable success in their business.

Use 'earned' when you have received something as a result of your hard work or achievements. It often describes tangible rewards like money, grades, or points.

• She earned her promotion through consistent hard work.
• He earned a medal in the race.

Use 'merit' when referring to someone or something possessing qualities or actions that are worthy of praise, reward, or attention. It is often used in formal contexts.

• His proposal has a lot of merit.
• This idea merits further consideration.

Use 'deserve' when someone has qualities or has done something that make them worthy of a specific outcome or reward. It often carries a sense of moral or ethical rightness.

• He deserves recognition for his contributions to the project.
• They deserve a break after working so hard.

Use 'warrant' when something justifies or necessitates an action or condition. It often implies a sense of official approval or necessity.

• The situation warrants immediate action.
• Does this problem warrant a meeting?

Use 'justify' when you need to provide reasons or explanations to support or defend an action, decision, or idea. It often implies that the action or decision is being questioned or under scrutiny.

• She had to justify her expenses to the finance team.
• How can you justify this behavior?