I was entitled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was entitled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a right or claim to something, often in a context where one feels they deserve a certain treatment or benefit. Example: "After years of hard work, I felt I was entitled to a promotion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I felt I was entitled.

The New York Times - Sports

"I felt like I was entitled".

The New York Times - Magazine

"Like I was entitled to that".

The New York Times

But I absolutely knew I was entitled.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

County I was entitled to this information".

The New Yorker

And strictly speaking, I was entitled to half the firm, and my lawyer advised me to pursue everything I was entitled to.

The Guardian

"But I did it because I knew I was entitled to choose my own partner.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Still it took three months for the council to accept I was entitled to housing.

The Guardian - Opinion

I wasn't having the sex I thought I was entitled to, the sex modelled by Hollywood.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

"I'm entitled to it.

The New York Times

I'm entitled.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I was entitled", ensure that the context clearly establishes the basis for the entitlement, whether it's legal, moral, or contractual. Vague claims of entitlement can weaken your argument.

Common error

Avoid using "I was entitled" in situations where the entitlement is based solely on personal preference or desire, rather than a legitimate claim. This can come across as demanding or unreasonable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was entitled" functions as a declarative statement, asserting a past belief or conviction about having a right or claim to something. It's used to express a sense of deservingness or legitimate expectation, as supported by Ludwig AI's analysis.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I was entitled" is a declarative statement used to express a past belief in having a right or legitimate claim to something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news, academic, and formal business contexts. While generally neutral in tone, the formality can vary depending on the situation. When using this phrase, it's crucial to clearly establish the basis for the entitlement and avoid overstating claims based solely on personal preference. Related phrases like "I had a right to" and "I deserved" can offer nuanced alternatives depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I had a right to

Emphasizes a legal or moral claim to something.

I was justified in

Suggests a reasonable basis for one's actions or beliefs.

I deserved

Highlights the merit or worthiness of receiving something.

I was eligible for

Indicates meeting specific criteria to receive a benefit or service.

I had a claim to

Implies a formal or legal demand for something.

I was due

Suggests something is owed or expected at a particular time.

It was my prerogative

Highlights a special right or privilege.

I was authorized to

Indicates official permission or sanction.

I had grounds for

Implies a valid basis or reason for something.

I was warranted in

Suggests a legitimate reason or justification.

FAQs

How can I use "I was entitled" in a sentence?

Use "I was entitled" to express a belief that you had a legitimate claim or right to something. For instance, "After working overtime, "I was entitled" to compensation".

What's a less formal way to say "I was entitled"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "I deserved", "I had a right to", or "I was due" as less formal alternatives.

Is it always appropriate to state that "I was entitled" to something?

No, it's not always appropriate. Consider the social context and potential perception of your statement. Ensure that the entitlement is based on a legitimate claim and not just personal desire.

What's the difference between "I was entitled to" and "I deserved"?

"I was entitled to" implies a legal or formal right, whereas "I deserved" suggests a moral or earned right. For example, ""I was entitled to" a refund because of the warranty", but "I deserved a vacation after all that hard work".