1
as in distinction
a quality that gives something special worth
this mystery novel at least has the merit of an original plot
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in value
the relative usefulness or importance of something as judged by specific qualities
that idea has some merit, so let's explore it
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Recent Examples of merit
Killian Baarlaer, Louisville Courier Journal, 23 July 2025
On June 30, however, Nevada Circuit Court Judge Carolyn Ellsworth denied the TRO request, ruling that the petitioners had not demonstrated immediate and irreparable injury, without addressing the merits of the broader dispute.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 23 July 2025
David Sella-Villa, The Conversation, 24 June 2025
Trump’s workaround appears to be that Powell misrepresented the renovation project in congressional testimony and that the cost is excessive, thus meriting his dismissal.
—Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 16 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for merit
Noun
The probe comes as the university faces pressures from state and federal officials to dissolve all diversity, equity and inclusion practices, which critics say provide favorable opportunities to people from underrepresented backgrounds while overlooking the merit of others who might deserve them.
—Killian Baarlaer, Louisville Courier Journal, 23 July 2025
On June 30, however, Nevada Circuit Court Judge Carolyn Ellsworth denied the TRO request, ruling that the petitioners had not demonstrated immediate and irreparable injury, without addressing the merits of the broader dispute.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 23 July 2025
Verb
But that was probably not enough to merit a conviction.
—David Sella-Villa, The Conversation, 24 June 2025
Trump’s workaround appears to be that Powell misrepresented the renovation project in congressional testimony and that the cost is excessive, thus meriting his dismissal.
—Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 16 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for merit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for merit
Noun
-
Qureshi draws a distinction between having a purpose and having a goal.—
Sarah Shephard,
New York Times,
30 July 2025
-
The two also share a border and a collective distinction as the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, established in 1932 to honor peace and goodwill between the United States and Canada.—
The New York Times News Service Syndicate,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
28 July 2025
Noun
-
Bathroom renovations can improve mood, functionality, and home value.—
Lennie Omalza,
The Courier-Journal,
25 July 2025
-
The heat dome created by high pressure has been influencing the weather over the eastern third of the country, causing heat index values of 105 to 110 in cities across the Deep South like Little Rock, Memphis and New Orleans.—
Mary Wasson,
Austin American Statesman,
25 July 2025
Verb
-
James Craig, a board member who represents District 3, agreed non-certified staff, especially instructional assistants, deserve a higher salary.—
Krista Johnson,
The Courier-Journal,
25 July 2025
-
While the ’90s gave us plenty to hold onto—epic TV sitcoms, pop icons, and, of course, the rise of the internet—not every trend deserves a comeback.—
Sophie Flaxman,
Better Homes & Gardens,
24 July 2025
Noun
-
Such facilities have flocked to the state for its competitive operating costs, low natural disaster risk and strong fiber infrastructure, among other advantages.—
Sasha Hupka,
AZCentral.com,
25 July 2025
-
The Sun’s biggest advantage remaining in Connecticut is a loyal and well-established fan base.—
Emily Adams,
Hartford Courant,
24 July 2025
Noun
-
During his memorable Hall of Fame speech, Sandberg preached the importance of respect — for teammates, coaches and the game — and doing the little things right.—
Meghan Montemurro,
Chicago Tribune,
29 July 2025
-
The data underscores the importance of not leaving algorithmic humor unchecked, Saumure said.—
Jyoti Madhusoodanan,
Smithsonian Magazine,
28 July 2025
Noun
-
Take Advantage Of Increased Catch-up Provisions Starting 2025, individuals age 60 to 63 who participate in 401(k), 403(b), and governmental 457(b) plans are eligible to contribute a super catch-up contribution, by virtue of the SECURE 2.0 Act.—
True Tamplin,
Forbes.com,
23 July 2025
-
Does a great man embody the virtue of being devoid of empathy?—
Rafael Perez,
Oc Register,
21 July 2025
Noun
-
So anybody looking to chase excellence every day, find that one win, frame it, take note, look in the mirror and then go chase that thing.—
Dave Hyde,
Sun Sentinel,
31 July 2025
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Nora Gámez Torres, the Miami Herald and el Nuevo Herald reporter who has spent more than a decade chronicling the dramatic changes inside Cuba, including daily life amid a collapsing economy, has been awarded the prestigious Maria Moors Cabot Prize for career excellence.—
Jacqueline Charles,
Miami Herald,
30 July 2025
Cite this Entry
“Merit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/merit. Accessed 7 Aug. 2025.
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