How to Say "deserving" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “deserving” is “digno” — use 'digno' when someone or something merits attention, respect, or reward based on their inherent qualities or actions, often in a more general or abstract sense.
digno
DEEG-nohˈdiɣno
Examples
Es un hombre digno de nuestra confianza.
He is a man worthy of our trust.
La causa es digna de ser apoyada por todos.
The cause is deserving of everyone's support.
No soy digno de tanto honor.
I am not worthy of so much honor.
Always Use 'de'
When 'digno' means 'worthy of something,' it almost always needs the small word 'de' (of) immediately after it before you name the thing it is worthy of.
Adjective Agreement
Like all Spanish adjectives, 'digno' must change its ending to match the person or thing it describes: 'digno' (m.), 'digna' (f.), 'dignos' (m. plural), 'dignas' (f. plural).
Omitting 'de'
Mistake: “Es digno confianza.”
Correction: Es digno de confianza. (You must include 'de' to link the adjective to the thing being deserved.)
acreedor
ah-creh-eh-DORakɾeeˈðoɾ
Examples
Su gran esfuerzo lo hizo acreedor al primer premio.
His great effort made him deserving of the first prize.
Es acreedor de un gran respeto por su carrera.
He is entitled to great respect for his career.
Ese comportamiento lo hace acreedor a una sanción.
That behavior makes him deserving of a penalty.
Using 'A' or 'De'
When you want to say 'deserving of,' you can use the word 'a' or 'de' after acreedor. Both are correct, though 'a' is more common with prizes and 'de' with abstract qualities like respect.
English Translation Trap
Mistake: “Translating 'deserving' directly to 'acreedor' in casual talk.”
Correction: Use 'merecedor' for everyday things. Use 'acreedor' when you want to sound very official or formal.
Digno vs. Acreedor
Related Translations
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