Undeservedly: meaning, definitions and examples

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undeservedly

[ˌʌndɪˈzɜːvdli ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

used in a sentence

In a way that is not deserved or justified; without reason or cause.

Synonyms

inappropriately, unfairly, unjustly.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
undeservedly	This word is used when someone receives something that they should not get, such as praise, blame, or rewards. It implies that what the person received is not warranted by their actions or qualities. He was undeservedly praised for the project, even though he barely contributed. She found herself undeservedly blamed for the mistake that wasn't her fault.
unjustly	This term is used when an action or treatment is not just or right according to moral and ethical standards. It has a strong implication of moral wrongness or violation of fairness. The employee was unjustly fired without any valid reason. He was unjustly accused of a crime he did not commit.
unfairly	This word is used to describe a situation where someone is treated in a manner that lacks justice or equality. It often carries a connotation of favoritism or bias. The teacher unfairly gave higher grades to his favorite students. She felt she was unfairly denied the promotion.
inappropriately	This term is used when something does not fit the context, situation, or social norms. It indicates that the action or behavior is not suitable or proper for the given circumstances. He inappropriately wore casual clothes to a formal wedding. She laughed inappropriately during a serious meeting.

Examples of usage

He was undeservedly praised for his mediocre performance.
She felt undeservedly guilty for the accident.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

used in a sentence

In a manner that is not merited or earned.

Synonyms

inappropriately, unduly, unjustifiably.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
undeservedly	This implies something that is not deserved or earned, often used to describe situations where someone receives praise, success, or punishment they did not truly earn. He was undeservedly given the award, despite not contributing much to the project. She felt undeservedly criticized for a mistake she didn't make.
unduly	This suggests something that is excessively or unreasonably done or given, typically expressing a sense of imbalance or excess. She was unduly concerned about the minor issue. The judge was unduly harsh in his sentencing.
unjustifiably	This means something that lacks valid justification or reason, often used when actions or decisions can't be logically explained or defended. His anger was unjustifiably directed at his coworkers. The company laid off workers unjustifiably despite having strong profits.
inappropriately	This indicates something that is not suitable or proper in a specific context, often relating to behavior, clothing, or language. He was dressed inappropriately for the formal event, wearing jeans and a t-shirt. The comment she made was inappropriately timed during a serious meeting.

Examples of usage

She was undeservedly promoted ahead of more qualified candidates.
The team undeservedly won the championship due to a technicality.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word combines 'undeserved' (meaning not earned) with the suffix '-ly' to describe how the action happens.
It first appeared in English literature during the early 19th century, showing a growing interest in fairness and justice.
The prefix 'un-' means 'not,' indicating a negative quality associated with deserving something.

Psychology

Research shows that people often feel guilty when they receive something undeserved, leading to feelings of shame or discomfort.
Cognitive dissonance may occur when a person believes they don’t deserve certain rewards, causing psychological stress.
Feelings of undeservedness can influence self-esteem, leading some individuals to reject compliments or rewards.

Literature

Many literary works explore themes of undeserved rewards, often highlighting the tension between merit and luck.
Classic tales, such as fairy tales, frequently feature characters who receive gifts or fortunes without deserving them, like winning a lottery by chance.
Modern literature continues to address the complexity of fairness, showcasing how some characters thrive without merit, challenging societal norms.

Sociology

In social contexts, perceptions of undeserved advantages can lead to feelings of resentment or envy among peers.
Discussions around privilege often involve notions of undeserved benefits that some individuals receive due to their background or status.
Social justice movements strive to address inequalities where certain groups perceive advantages as undeserved.

Pop Culture

Reality TV shows often showcase contestants winning prizes undeservedly, sparking debates among fans about fairness.
Songs and movies sometimes touch on themes of undeserved success, with protagonists who struggle despite receiving accolades.
The phrase 'undeservedly famous' trends in discussions about celebrities who gain fame without apparent talent or effort.

Translations

Translations of the word "undeservedly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 injustamente

🇮🇳 अन्यायपूर्वक

🇩🇪 unverdient

🇮🇩 tidak pantas

🇺🇦 незаслужено

🇵🇱 niezasłużenie

🇯🇵 不当にも

🇫🇷 indûment

🇪🇸 inmerecidamente

🇹🇷 hak edilmeden

🇰🇷 부당하게

🇸🇦 بغير استحقاق

🇨🇿 nezaslouženě

🇸🇰 nezaslúžene

🇨🇳 不应得地

🇸🇮 nezasluženo

🇮🇸 óverðskuldaður

🇰🇿 лайықсыз

🇬🇪 დაუმსახურებლად

🇦🇿 layiq olmadığı halda

🇲🇽 inmerecidamente