for exceptional merit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for exceptional merit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a reward, recognition, or acknowledgment given to someone for outstanding achievements or qualities. Example: "She received a scholarship for exceptional merit in her academic performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Julia received her Bachelor of Architecture at Cornell University, graduating with the Charles Goodwin Sands Memorial Medal for exceptional merit in the thesis of architecture.

Yale University

In 1994, composer Anthony Braxton was awarded the MacArthur Fellowship for "exceptional merit and promise", sometimes referred to as a "genius grant".

Vice

"The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst" won for documentary or nonfiction series, and "Citizenfour" received honors for "exceptional merit in documentary filmmaking".

Los Angeles Times

The show also received a 2010 Golden Eagle Cine Award and was nominated for both an Emmy for Exceptional Merit in Nonfiction Filmmaking and a NAACP Image Award.

HuffPost

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

GCA awarded her its Club Medal of Merit, given for contributions of exceptional merit to the Club, in 2005; the Marcy Crutcher Zone Award for Horticultural Excellence in 2003; and in 1983 the Katherine B. Pitney Award.

The New York Times

The commandant of the school commended Middleton for work of exceptional merit, and sent his ideas to the highest levels in the War Department.

Wikipedia

The bequest also provides for recognition of books of exceptional merit and distinction in these fields by annual awarding prizes to the authors.

Columbia University

Established in 2006 by Mr. Kevin Zhang '94 MBA, the scholarship is designed to increase the international diversity of the student body by offering scholarships for first-year students of exceptional merit from mainland China who demonstrate need.

Yale University

The new award, called the Stonewall Children's and Young Adult Literature Award, is for an English-language book "of exceptional merit relating to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered experience," the association said on Monday.

The New York Times

The $4,000 Bancroft Prizes, awarded by Columbia University to authors of books of exceptional merit in history, biography and diplomacy, go to David W. Blight for "Race and Reunion: The Civil War in American Memory" (Harvard University Press) and Alice Kessler-Harris for "In Pursuit of Equity: Women, Men and the Quest for Economic Citizenship in 20th-Century America" (Oxford University Press).

The New York Times - Books

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

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "for exceptional merit" when you want to formally acknowledge outstanding achievement or capability, especially in academic or professional contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "for exceptional merit" in casual conversation or informal writing. It sounds overly formal and could be perceived as pretentious. Opt for simpler phrases like "for being great" or "because you're awesome" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for exceptional merit" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb, indicating the reason or basis for an action or recognition. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is usable and correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

33%

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for exceptional merit" is a formal prepositional phrase used to denote the reason for granting an award or recognition, highlighting outstanding achievements. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is correct and appropriate in academic, news, and scientific contexts. While it's essential to maintain formality in your writing, be mindful of overly formal language in casual conversation. Instead, consider more straightforward alternatives like "for outstanding achievement" or "in recognition of extraordinary skill" based on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for outstanding achievement

Replaces "exceptional merit" with a more common synonym for high-level success.

in recognition of extraordinary skill

Emphasizes the skill aspect, framing the merit as a quality or skill.

based on remarkable excellence

Highlights the high quality of the performance or work, focusing on excellence.

due to unparalleled talent

Attributes the merit to innate ability, implying a natural gift.

as a result of distinguished performance

Focuses on the performance aspect, emphasizing the high level of accomplishment.

in light of superior aptitude

Highlights the aptitude or natural ability, implying inherent capability.

on account of extraordinary ability

Focuses on the high level of ability as the reason for recognition.

because of noteworthy accomplishment

Emphasizes the significant achievement or accomplishment.

given remarkable proficiency

Highlights the expertise and skill demonstrated.

considering significant distinction

Implies a special status or honor based on merit.

FAQs

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

You can use "for exceptional merit" to describe why someone received an award, scholarship, or recognition. For example, "She received a scholarship "for exceptional merit" in her academic performance".

What are some alternatives to using "for exceptional merit"?

Alternatives include "for outstanding achievement", "in recognition of extraordinary skill", or "based on remarkable excellence", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "for exceptional merit" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, "for exceptional merit" is quite formal and best suited for professional or academic settings. In casual conversation, consider using simpler, more direct phrases.

What kind of awards are typically given "for exceptional merit"?

Awards given "for exceptional merit" are often associated with academic achievements, professional accomplishments, or significant contributions to a field. Examples include scholarships, fellowships, and distinguished service awards.