entitled

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "entitled" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something as having the right to something. For example: "The student was entitled to a refund after canceling the course."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They're entitled to their views.

The Guardian

So we have created a strong incentive for hospitals in the system not to pick out the people who aren't entitled to free NHS care.

The Guardian

Other top executives at Network Rail are entitled to annual performance-related bonuses of up to 20% of salaries.

The Guardian

But I think Hilary Swank might be entitled to be disappointed that she didn't make it for her performance in The Homesman and if the Academy was in the market for non-US actors, well … how about Berenice Béjo for The Past?

The Guardian - Film

Lord Hattersley is entitled to his views, which are well known.' Hattersley's comments will be difficult to dismiss.

The Guardian

Rusbridger says there will be a legal challenge over whether the police were entitled to seize Miranda's material.

The Guardian

Each of them is entitled to the same presumptions and due process rights which are extended to any citizen in these sad circumstances," the statement said.

The Guardian

Asked whether the Lib Dems would seek to block an EU referendum on Cameron's timetable, Laws said: "Voters are entitled to know what are the things that are really really important to them that they they would expect to vote for that party to deliver".

The Guardian

It should now be accepted that journalists are entitled to protect their sources of information, otherwise that information will dry up and there will be less public interest information, such as the hacking of Milly Dowler's phone".

The Guardian

Carswell has also been at loggerheads with Ukip's hierarchy over his insistence on not claiming all the parliamentary subsidies the party is now entitled to.

The Guardian

In 2002 he wrote his own account of the affair, Black Scandal, and at the time of his death was trying to interest publishers in a fictionalised version of his hustling days, entitled Calypso Train.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using "entitled" in contexts where it implies arrogance or undue sense of privilege, as this can carry negative connotations.

Common error

Be cautious when using "entitled" to describe someone's attitude. It can easily be interpreted as accusatory, suggesting they believe they deserve more than they do. Choose more neutral language like "confident" or "assertive" if that's not your intent.

Linguistic Context

The word "entitled" functions primarily as a verb (past participle of "entitle") or an adjective. Ludwig's examples demonstrate its use in indicating eligibility, authorization, or the holding of a right to something. It can also denote a belief in one's own inherent deservingness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "entitled" is frequently used as both a verb and an adjective, as Ludwig confirms. It commonly signifies having a right or qualification for something, often appearing in news and formal business contexts. However, it can also convey a negative connotation, describing someone with an undue sense of privilege. When using "entitled", clarity about the subject's entitlement is crucial to avoid ambiguity. While versatile, awareness of its potential for misinterpretation is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a right to

Focuses on the legal or moral justification for possessing or doing something.

eligible for

Highlights the fulfillment of specific requirements to receive something.

qualified for

Emphasizes meeting the necessary standards or criteria.

authorized to

Stresses the formal permission or approval to do something.

permitted to

Indicates allowance or consent to engage in an action.

allowed to

Similar to permitted, but can also imply a lack of prohibition.

empowered to

Highlights the granting of power or authority to act.

sanctioned to

Implies official approval or endorsement.

vested with

Indicates the formal conferring of a right or power.

privileged to

Suggests a special right or advantage not available to everyone.

FAQs

How can I use "entitled" in a sentence?

You can use "entitled" to describe someone or something as having a right to something. For example, "The employee was "eligible for" a bonus based on performance."

What are some alternatives to using "entitled"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "have a right to", ""eligible for"", or "qualified for".

When is it appropriate to use "entitled"?

"Entitled" is appropriate when indicating that someone has a legitimate claim or right to something, whether by law, contract, or moral principle. Be mindful of the potential negative connotations associated with the word.

What's the difference between "entitled" and "privileged"?

"Entitled" suggests a deserved or legal right, while "privileged" suggests a special advantage or benefit not available to everyone. "Entitled" can also imply a sense of arrogance or undue expectation, which is not necessarily present with "privileged".