equal merit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "equal merit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that two or more things are of the same level of quality or value. Example: "Both candidates have equal merit, making the decision difficult for the hiring committee."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

The court will consider applications from those who want to work part-time and will adopt the "equal merit" approach: if two candidates are equally well qualified, the panel will choose the one who adds to the diversity of the court, he said.

The Guardian

And by equal merit I mean no merit.

The New York Times - Magazine

We even changed the law to exempt it from the "equal merit" criterion.

Independent

It also suggests that the MoJ should consider introducing "equal merit" provisions for recruiting magistrates to boost diversity – which would allow those from less well-represented backgrounds to be chosen if candidates are of otherwise equal merit.

The Guardian

For every film that's available to stream, there are many more, of equal merit, that aren't accessible online.

The New Yorker

The Equality Act 2010 allows selectors to choose from under-represented groups when faced with two candidates of equal merit for the bench.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Hallett urged the judicial appointments commission (JAC) to exploit the so-called "tipping point" or equal merits provision more frequently, particularly in relation to appointing the senior judiciary.

The Guardian

Greater use should be made by the Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC) of the "tipping point" or equal merits provision in appointing the senior judiciary outside the supreme court.

The Guardian

If, however, several were equal in merit, the Druids voted, although they sometimes resorted to armed violence.

Britannica

"Both are of equal scientific merit," he insists, though he can't possibly believe it as he reckons evolution to be self-evidently wrong.

The Guardian

Bodies has sold 240,000 copies in hardback, way ahead of its competition in the Costas, but does popularity necessarily equal literary merit and accolades?

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "equal merit" in the context of hiring, ensure that your criteria for assessing merit are clear, objective, and consistently applied to avoid accusations of bias.

Common error

While diversity can be a factor when candidates are of "equal merit", it's crucial to demonstrate that the candidates are truly equally qualified before considering diversity. Failing to establish genuine "equal merit" can lead to legal challenges.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "equal merit" functions as an adjective-noun compound used to describe a state of comparable quality or worth. It typically modifies a subject, indicating that two or more entities possess a similar level of value in a specific context. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "equal merit" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a situation where two or more entities are considered to be of equivalent value or quality. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is frequently found in news, academic, and scientific contexts, reflecting its use in formal discussions and decision-making processes. While the phrase itself is straightforward, its application can be complex, particularly in contexts like hiring, where establishing objective criteria for "equal merit" is crucial. When two options or people have "equal merit", the next decision is based on other values, such as diversity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equal worth

Focuses on comparable value or importance.

equivalent value

Focuses on comparable value.

equal relevance

Focuses on the comparable significance or applicability rather than inherent quality.

equal validity

Emphasizes the comparable soundness or legitimacy of something.

equal accomplishment

Highlights comparable achievements or successes.

equal competence

Focuses on the comparable ability or skill level.

equal benefit

Emphasizes the comparable advantages or gains.

equal excellence

Highlights comparable superior quality or distinction.

comparable quality

Highlights that the quality between two or more elements is similar.

equal standard

Focuses on reaching the same standard.

FAQs

How is "equal merit" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "equal merit" is often used in the context of selection processes, such as hiring or awarding grants, to indicate that candidates or proposals are of comparable quality. For example, 'When candidates are of equal merit, other factors such as diversity may be considered'.

What are some alternatives to "equal merit"?

You can use alternatives like "equal worth", "equal value", or "comparable quality" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when two candidates are said to have "equal merit"?

When two candidates are said to have "equal merit", it means they are considered equally qualified or deserving based on the primary criteria used for evaluation. It suggests that their skills, experience, and other relevant attributes are comparable.

In hiring, how is "equal merit" determined?

Determining "equal merit" involves assessing candidates against a predefined set of criteria relevant to the job. This may include skills, experience, education, and other qualifications. If candidates score similarly across these criteria, they may be deemed to have "equal merit".