merits
/ˈmɛɹ.ɪts/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
Intrinsic advantages, as opposed to political or procedural advantages.
Noun
Examples
I was the boss's pet project, but was rejected on the merits.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
Substance, distinguished from form or procedure.
Noun
Examples
The merits of the case favored the plaintiffs, but their procedural blunders set them back.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “merits” mean?
Intrinsic advantages, as opposed to political or procedural advantages.
Is “merits” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.