devoid of merits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devoid of merits" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that lacks value, worth, or positive qualities. Example: "The proposal was ultimately rejected as it was deemed devoid of merits and failed to address the key issues."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

This alternative history is devoid of merit.

The Guardian - Opinion

In his affidavit, Oplinger angrily responded, "This is a serious charge, and devoid of merit".

The New Yorker

This figure too is devoid of merit, a transparent attempt to circumvent the scientific consensus.

The Guardian

Snapchat describes Mr Brown's claims as "frivolous" and "utterly devoid of merit".

Independent

A spokesman for A.I.G., Mark Herr, said the Casadys' lawsuit was "devoid of merit" and said Mr. Aguirre appeared to be recycling old and discredited legal theories.

The New York Times

Mara Levin, the restaurant's legal counsel, said Tavern on the Green first learned about the allegations several years ago, conducted an immediate investigation and determined that the accusations were devoid of merit.

The New York Times

Summing up, the judge said it was not relevant the trial had been held in a language he didn't understand and the fact that he had never been in possession of the drugs was "devoid of merit".

Independent

Evidently, Christ, who was without sin, so identified himself with sinful humanity that he felt estranged from God. Christ the Judge seated upon the rainbow had become Christ the Derelict upon the cross, and here the wrath and the mercy of God could find a meeting point that allowed God to forgive those utterly devoid of merit.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Spiegel called the lawsuit "utterly devoid of merit" in February.

TechCrunch

We are aware of the allegations, believe them to be utterly devoid of merit, and will vigorously defend ourselves against this frivolous suit.

TechCrunch

Also in 2013, Mr Spiegel said: "We are aware of the allegations, believe them to be utterly devoid of merit, and will vigorously defend ourselves against this frivolous suit".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "devoid of merits" to clearly and directly express that something lacks positive qualities or value. This phrase is suitable when you want to make a strong statement about the absence of worth.

Common error

While "devoid of merits" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or pretentious in everyday conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "worthless" or "lacking value" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devoid of merits" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate a lack of positive qualities or value. As noted by Ludwig, this phrase is usable, and the absence of direct examples suggests it may be less commonly used than "devoid of merit".

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "devoid of merits" is a grammatically correct way to express a lack of positive qualities or value. Ludwig indicates its usability in written English. Due to the absence of direct examples, it may be less common than similar phrases like "devoid of merit." It is best used in formal or neutral contexts when a strong statement is needed to convey the absence of worthwhile attributes. Consider simpler alternatives in informal settings to avoid sounding overly pretentious.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Lacking in merits

Direct synonym, replacing "devoid" with "lacking", maintaining the same grammatical structure and meaning.

Devoid of worth

Replaces "merits" with "worth", maintaining a similar level of formality and meaning.

Without merits

Uses "without" instead of "devoid of", simplifying the phrase while retaining its core sense.

Deficient in merits

Substitutes "devoid" with "deficient", suggesting a lack or shortage of positive qualities.

Wanting in merits

Replaces "devoid" with "wanting", indicating a deficiency or absence.

Lacking any merit

Shifts from plural to singular, emphasizing the complete absence of any positive attribute.

Valueless

Conveys the absence of value in a single word, offering a more concise alternative.

Meritless

A single-word alternative indicating a lack of merit or worth.

Unworthy

Suggests a lack of deserving qualities or value.

Of no value

Emphasizes the absence of worth or significance.

FAQs

How can I use "devoid of merits" in a sentence?

You can use "devoid of merits" to describe something that lacks positive qualities or value. For example, "The argument was "devoid of merits" and did not convince the jury."

What's a simpler way to say "devoid of merits"?

Alternatives include "lacking in merits", "without merit", or simply "worthless" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "devoid of merit" or "devoid of merits"?

"Devoid of merit" generally refers to a complete absence of any positive quality, while "devoid of merits" suggests a lack of multiple positive attributes. The choice depends on the specific context and what you want to emphasize.

What is the difference between "devoid of merit" and "lacking merit"?

Both phrases convey a similar meaning, but "devoid of merit" might suggest a more complete absence. "Lacking merit" implies that something is missing a certain quality, while "devoid" emphasizes that the quality is completely absent.