Synonyms for

Merit

Verb / ˈmerʌt / Another word for merit — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Merit means the quality of being particularly good or worthy, especially so as to deserve praise or reward.

Synonyms & similar words

demerit deservingness deserve meritoriousness virtue excellence value worth deservingness goodness quality meritoriousness credit distinction praise-worthiness virtue reputation respectability ability capability competence efficacy proficiency skill talent

Synonyms by register

Formal

worth value excellence virtue credit

Informal

good point upside plus strength

Literary

deserve earn be worthy of

Antonyms

demerit flaw fault weakness shortcoming disadvantage inadequacy

Common collocations

  • great merit
  • considerable merit
  • little merit
  • no merit
  • merit award
  • merit scholarship
  • merit system
  • trial by merit

Word family

noun merit
verb merit
adjective meritorious

Usage note

As a noun, 'merit' refers to the quality of being particularly good or worthy. As a verb, it means to be worthy of or deserve.

Example sentences

  1. The student's hard work and dedication earned her a merit award.
  2. His honesty and integrity merit our respect.
  3. Your contributions to the team merit recognition and appreciation.
  4. The company's success is a result of the merit of its employees.
  5. Her artistic talent merits a solo exhibition at the gallery.

Quotes

  • True merit, like a river, the deeper it is, the less noise it makes.
  • Merit, however inconsiderable, should be sought for and rewarded.
  • Merit is often an obstacle to fortune; the reason is it produces two bad effects, envy and fear.

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