Megérdemelt

Megérdemelt is a Hungarian adjective and adverb meaning deserved or well-deserved. It describes something that is considered rightfully due to someone because of merit, effort, or proper conduct. The term is commonly used with nouns such as jutalom, díj, elismerés, vagy sikerek, to convey that the outcome is merited.

Etymology and form: megérdemelt is formed from the verb érdemel, meaning to deserve, with the prefix meg-, which often marks completion or attainment, and the past participle suffix -t. As a result, megérdemelt can function predicatively (Ez megérdemelt volt) or attributively (megérdemelt díj, megérdemelt elismerés). The adverbial form is megérdemelten, used to describe actions done in a deserved manner (Megérdemelten kapta a díjat).

Usage and examples: The expression is widely used in everyday language, journalism, sports, and awards contexts. Examples include megérdemelt díjat kapott (he/she received a well-deserved prize), megérdemelt elismerést érdemelt ki, or egy megérdemelt jutalom (a well-deserved reward). The phrase tends to emphasize justice or deservedness rather than luck.

Nuance and related terms: Megérdemelt conveys a moral or merit-based justification for the outcome. It is closely related to, but slightly different from, jogos and méltó. Jogos often stresses fairness or entitlement, while méltó emphasizes suitability or appropriateness; megérdemelt foregrounds merit earned through actions or qualities.

See also: érdekesség, értelem? Noting related terms include érdemel, megérdemelés, és megérdemelten, which cover the verb, noun forms, and adverbial usage.