meritorious - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
meritorious Word Meanings
- deserving praise or reward
- worthy of recognition
- having merit or value
meritorious Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
meritorious Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌmɛrɪˈtɔːrɪəs/
US
/ˌmɛrɪˈtɔriəs/
meritorious Word Etymology
Root: (merit + -orious). Historical Origin: From Latin 'meritorius', via Old French. Memory Image: Imagine a golden medal being awarded to a person who has done great service, exemplifying the idea of being deserving of recognition and praise.
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
Meritorious describes actions or people that deserve praise or reward because of merit, virtue, or notable achievement. It conveys a formal sense of recognition, often used in awards, biographies, or evaluative contexts. Something meritorious has substance, value, and positive impact, rather than being merely accidental or fashionable. While meritorious can apply to people who display moral character, it more often highlights concrete merit such as skill, service, or results. In everyday speech, you might say a decision was meritorious if it withstood scrutiny and delivered tangible benefits. The memory image of a medal or certificate encapsulates the sense that praise is earned through worthy effort.
Usage Reminders
- Use meritorious for actions or people with clear, earned merit. Avoid talking about minor, casual kindness. It pairs well with service, conduct, or achievement. It is more formal than simply 'good' or 'praiseworthy'. Consider phrases like meritorious service or meritorious conduct. Do not use as a generic synonym for valuable.
Common Misconceptions
- Mistaking meritorious for mere 'good' or 'useful' without earned merit
- Using it for casual praise rather than formal achievements
- Confusing with profitable or beneficial rather than merited recognition
- Treating it as a noun instead of an adjective
- Overusing in everyday speech; reserve for awards or biographies
Thinking Differences
In English, meritorious is a formal attribute tied to earned merit; learners often assume it means simply 'good' and overextend it to casual praise. Focus on contexts like awards, biographies, and evaluations, and remember it collocates with service, conduct, and achievement.
Learning Tips
- Note that meritorious is formal; use with nouns like service, conduct, or achievement
- Pair with phrases like meritorious service or meritorious acts
- Differentiate from praiseworthy or laudable by focusing on earned merit
- Avoid using for trivial or everyday advantages
- Practice in bios, award notices, and formal essays
- Memorize common collocations to sound natural
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'meritorious' mean?
A.Lacking value or worth
B.Deserving praise or reward
C.Having no merit
D.Completely unimportant
Step 2: Usage
Choose the sentence that uses 'meritorious' correctly.
A.His meritorious effort in the project was appreciated by everyone.
B.The meritorious pizza was my favorite meal yesterday.
C.She felt meritorious after winning the game.
D.His meritorious decision to skip the meeting had no impact.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'meritorious'?
A.Praiseworthy
B.Unworthy
C.Insignificant
D.Trivial
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'meritorious'?
A.Valuable
B.Despicable
C.Noble
D.Commendable
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might do something meritorious?
A.Helping the community with a charity event is a commendable action.
B.The project was so unimportant that no one noticed.
C.Winning a competition without effort can be considered a big achievement.
D.Turning in lost money to the authorities exemplifies integrity.
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