demerits - Master This Word
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demerits Word Meanings
- a mark against someone for misconduct
- a fault or disadvantage
- a negative point or aspect
demerits Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
demerits Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈmɛrɪt/
US
/dɪˈmɛrɪt/
demerits Word Etymology
The word 'demerit' is derived from 'de-' (down, away) + 'merit' (to earn). Historically, it comes from Latin 'demeritum' via Old French. Picture a student losing points on a test due to mistakes, emphasizing the 'downward' stack of marks against their overall performance.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Demerit is a negative mark used to record misconduct or underperformance. It functions as the opposite of merit, indicating a deduction rather than a reward. People can receive a demerit for a single serious violation or a pattern of small mistakes, and the effect may accumulate like points on a record. In schools, workplaces, driving schools, and military settings, a demerit can trigger warnings, requirements to improve, or added supervision. The term signals a formal appraisal of behavior, not a monetary penalty. Understanding its weight depends on the rules of the institution and the severity of the behavior.
Usage Reminders
- - A demerit is a negative mark, not a fine or punishment.
- - Use demerit to describe formal records or rules in schools and workplaces.
- - It signals a deduction rather than praise, so avoid praise with demerit.
- - The impact depends on the institution and the number of demerits.
- - Compare demerit with merit to show overall evaluation.
Common Misconceptions
- Demerit is a synonym for a severe punishment.
- A demerit is the same as a monetary penalty.
- Demerit always comes from a single grave violation.
- Merit and demerit are interchangeable in every context.
- Once you get a demerit, it cannot accumulate or improve.
Thinking Differences
Demerit is viewed as a formal record of missteps, not a personal insult; learners should see it as a data point in an institutional evaluation system.
Learning Tips
- Think of demerit as a score in a behavior log.
- Practice phrases like 'a demerit on his record' vs 'a merit for effort'.
- Learn common collocations: accrue demerits, issue a demerit, remove demerit.
- Watch for context signals: school policy vs workplace policy.
- Use contrast with merit to describe overall evaluation.
- Keep a neutral tone when discussing demerits in formal writing.
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