exceptional merit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exceptional merit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that stands out due to outstanding qualities or achievements. Example: "Her research was recognized for its exceptional merit, earning her a prestigious award."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Srinivasan more than meets the standard of exceptional merit, with his Stanford degrees and professional experience.

The Washington Post

The awards are intended to support individuals across all disciplines who show "exceptional merit and promise of continued creative work".

The Guardian - Books

The fellowships are given each year to people who show exceptional merit and the promise of continued creative work.

The New York Times

The highest citation in the list, the Exceptional Merit Award, is given for acts involving personal danger.

The New York Times

The Exceptional Merit Award, second only to the Gold Shield Award, is for acts involving grave personal danger.

The New York Times

The American Accounting Association's Notable Contributions to Accounting Literature Award recognizes research of exceptional merit in the field of accounting.

Columbia University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

The professorships are granted to members of the faculty in recognition of exceptional scholarly merit and distinguished service to Columbia.

Columbia University

Be a student of exceptional academic merit who belongs to a group underrepresented in higher education or who comes from a disadvantaged background.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The second program will discuss how the plan will affect the design of new buildings and the standards by which some projects of exceptional architectural merit will be deemed exempt.

The New York Times

— ANTHEE CARASSAVA Organ Donors Sought The pipe organ built in 1868 and 1869 by Henry Erben in St .Patrick's Old Cathedral in Lower Manhattan was recognized on Sunday by The Organ Historical Society as an instrument of "exceptional historical merit, worthy of preservation".

The New York Times - Arts

In 1992 Breslow was named University Professor, the University's highest academic honor, granted to only the most distinguished members of the faculty in recognition of exceptional scholarly merit and contributions to Columbia.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "exceptional merit" to highlight achievements or qualities that significantly exceed standard expectations. For impactful writing, provide specific details supporting the claim of exceptional merit.

Common error

Avoid using "exceptional merit" to describe ordinary qualities or achievements. This phrase should be reserved for truly outstanding instances to maintain its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exceptional merit" functions primarily as a noun phrase modifier. It is used to describe the qualities or achievements of a person, object, or idea, indicating that they possess outstanding value or distinction, as supported by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

32%

News & Media

48%

Science

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "exceptional merit" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression, primarily found in academic, news, and scientific contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves to highlight outstanding qualities or achievements. To enhance your writing, reserve this phrase for instances that genuinely surpass expectations. While alternatives like "outstanding quality" or "remarkable distinction" exist, "exceptional merit" carries a distinct emphasis on superior value, making it ideal for formal and professional communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

outstanding quality

Focuses on the superior level of quality, without necessarily implying a specific achievement.

remarkable distinction

Emphasizes the notability and honor associated with the achievement.

noteworthy excellence

Highlights the praiseworthy nature of the superior performance.

exemplary performance

Focuses on the act of performing at an exceptionally high level.

considerable accomplishment

Shifts the focus to the completed achievement and its significance.

significant achievement

Underscores the importance and impact of the accomplishment.

great distinction

Highlights the prestige associated with the achievement.

superior talent

Emphasizes the inherent ability contributing to the achievement.

high caliber

Describes the high standard and quality of something.

first-rate skill

Focuses on the top-notch level of skill demonstrated.

FAQs

How can I use "exceptional merit" in a sentence?

You can use "exceptional merit" to describe someone or something that stands out due to outstanding qualities or achievements. For example, "Her research was recognized for its exceptional merit, earning her a prestigious award."

What are some alternatives to "exceptional merit"?

Alternatives include "outstanding quality", "remarkable distinction", or "noteworthy excellence", depending on the specific context.

Which is more appropriate: "exceptional merit" or "high quality"?

"Exceptional merit" suggests a higher degree of achievement and is suitable when you want to highlight something truly outstanding. "High quality" is a more general term indicating something is above average but not necessarily extraordinary.

What distinguishes "exceptional merit" from "considerable accomplishment"?

"Exceptional merit" typically refers to inherent qualities or capabilities that are outstanding, whereas "considerable accomplishment" focuses on specific achievements and their significance.