Entitle Meaning

UK /ɪnˈtaɪtl/
US /ɪnˈtaɪtl/
Word Definition
entitle meaning

Entitle Definition & Usage

verb

To give someone the right or claim to something.

Examples

  • "The new policy entitles all employees to a paid vacation after one year of service."
  • "This document entitles the holder to a full refund."
  • "The ticket entitles you to access the VIP area during the concert."
  • "Your membership in the club entitles you to discounts on all future purchases."
  • "Being a senior citizen entitles you to discounted fares on public transportation."
verb

To give a title or name to something or someone.

Examples

  • "The author entitles his book 'Journey Through Time'."
  • "They decided to entitle the project 'Future Innovations'."
  • "The movie was entitled 'Endless Summer', reflecting the carefree tone of the film."
  • "She entitles her art series 'Whispers of the Past'."
  • "The new album will be entitled 'Songs of the Heart'."
verb

To believe or feel that one has a right to something, often implying an unreasonable expectation.

Examples

  • "He felt entitled to a promotion despite not meeting the performance targets."
  • "She entitled herself to a luxurious vacation without considering her budget."
  • "The sense of entitlement in his tone annoyed everyone in the meeting."
  • "Some people are entitled to benefits, but others abuse the system."
  • "They thought they were entitled to preferential treatment because of their status."

Cultural Context

The word 'entitle' has its roots in the legal field, where it was historically used to denote the right to possess or claim something. Over time, its usage expanded to other contexts, including social and personal expectations.

The Entitlement Dilemma

Story

The Entitlement Dilemma

In a small town, a young woman named Laura had always been told that she was entitled to great things. Raised in a wealthy family, she was given the best education and expected to achieve high standards. But when Laura entered the professional world, she found that her expectations didn't always match reality. At her first job interview, she confidently walked in, believing she was entitled to the role. After all, she'd been told her whole life that success was simply a matter of time. But when the interviewer asked, 'Why should we hire you?', Laura froze. Her resume was impeccable, but the job required more than just credentials. It demanded creativity, teamwork, and a drive that Laura had never truly developed. She had always been told she was entitled to success, but now, she faced a reality check. Laura didn't get the job. Yet, she learned an important lesson: entitlement isn't about what you're given; it's about what you earn. She started working hard, developing her skills, and finally landed a role at a smaller company that valued her contributions. Years later, she became a successful entrepreneur, building a company from the ground up. And while she never forgot the lessons of entitlement and privilege, she now understood that true success comes from the effort you put in, not just the titles or privileges you're born into.

The Entitlement Dilemma