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to merit

to merit

41 3.9
To deserve praise or a reward
  • verb
  • /ˈmɛrɪt/
translation icon : merecer
  • The performance was so impressive that it merited a standing ovation.
  • merits attention
  • merits consideration
  • merits further investigation

Jesus plus nothing that we can merit equals eternal life.

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Examples

Synonyms

to deserve
vsto merit
1.9

Have earned something because of what you do or who you are

focuses more on worthiness for praise or reward rather than punishment
to command
vsto merit
48 5.2

To deserve and get respect or a high price

expresses worthiness but does not claim the benefit will be received

Compounds

12 2.8

A small cloth badge given to scouts for learning a skill

5 4.5

Extra money given to a worker for good job performance

merit system
  • Formal
1 3.7

A way to hire and promote people in government or companies based on ability

figure of merit
  • Specialized
1 7.7

A number that shows how well a device or material works compared to others

A way people earn small awards for learning, skills, or good work

How Deserved

to earn
947 1.0
to deserve
1.9
to merit
41 3.9

Surface Forms

merit infinitive
merited past
merited past participle
meriting present participle
merits third person singular

Etymology

The verb merit comes from the same old Latin root merēre, which means 'to earn'. So to merit something is to 'earn' it or to deserve praise or a reward.