by merit

USAGE SUMMARY

"by merit" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to express that someone achieved something due to their ability, skill, or qualities. For example, "He was accepted to the top university by merit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Great by merit alone".

The New York Times

"By merit, it might.

The New York Times

Some will win by merit, some will win by lottery.

The New York Times

But the A.B.A. seems unaware of the issues raised by merit grants.

The New York Times

Within the government, cabinet posts were to be allocated by merit and no longer by faction.

The Economist

The commission also argued that press officers should be appointed by merit rather than ministerial preference.

The Guardian

Now visibility is there by merit of good design and materials, which is much more appealing.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That he avoided committing war crimes was "not by merit", he insisted.

The Guardian - Books

The first edition of "The Yacoubian Building," a novel, was released by Merit after being passed up by other publishers.

The New York Times

In a democracy, citizens are gifted their equality by virtue of birth, not by merit of success.

The Guardian

Surely it is better to judge college applicants or potential employees by "merit" than by their last names.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In discussions about hiring or promotion, use "by merit" to highlight that the selection process prioritizes skills, experience, and qualifications over personal connections or other irrelevant factors.

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "by merit" with "merely". "By merit" indicates achievement or selection based on quality, while "merely" means only or simply. For example, saying "He was chosen merely for his connections" has a very different meaning than "He was chosen by merit".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by merit" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying verbs or nouns to indicate the basis or reason for an action or state. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English. It describes that an achievement, award, or selection is based on demonstrable qualities or accomplishments, not on irrelevant factors.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by merit" is a correct and commonly used prepositional phrase that signifies achievement or selection based on demonstrable qualities, skills, or accomplishments. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is used to emphasize fairness and objectivity, indicating that decisions are made without bias. It appears frequently in news, science, and encyclopedia sources. Related phrases include "based on qualifications" and "on the strength of one's abilities". When using "by merit", be careful not to confuse it with "merely", and ensure that your writing emphasizes the importance of skills and qualifications. It’s essential to choose "by merit" to specifically underscore that choices are made impartially, free from bias or favoritism, especially in hiring, promotion, and awards scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Based on qualifications

This alternative focuses on the specific skills and credentials that make someone suitable.

On the strength of one's abilities

This emphasizes the inherent capabilities and skills someone possesses.

According to demonstrated skill

Highlights the importance of proven expertise.

Through competence

Focuses on the ability to perform a task effectively.

By virtue of talent

Emphasizes natural aptitude and skill.

On grounds of achievement

This alternative emphasizes the accomplishments and successes.

Attributable to one's efforts

Highlights the dedication and hard work involved.

Through a meritocratic system

References the system where rewards are based on individual abilities.

Due to excellence

Focuses on the high quality of performance or ability.

Based on performance

Stresses the role of how well something is done.

FAQs

How do you use "by merit" in a sentence?

Use "by merit" to indicate that someone has achieved something or been selected for something because of their skills, qualities, or achievements. For example, "She was promoted "by merit", not seniority."

What can I say instead of "by merit"?

You can use alternatives such as "based on qualifications", "on the strength of one's abilities", or "according to demonstrated skill depending on the specific context.

Is it redundant to say "selected by merit and skill"?

While "merit" and "skill" are closely related, using both can provide emphasis. "Merit" encompasses a broader range of qualities, while "skill" specifically highlights competence in a particular area. You can decide based on whether you prefer a more general or more specific emphasis.

What's the difference between "by merit" and "on merit"?

Both "by merit" and "on merit" are acceptable and largely interchangeable. "By merit" may be slightly more common, but both phrases effectively convey the idea of achievement or selection based on demonstrable qualities.