it merited

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it merited" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing something that deserves or is worthy of a particular response, recognition, or action. Example: "The project was so well executed that it merited a standing ovation from the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

As for the letter itself, though, Kissinger said that the "demagogic tone" of it "merited its rejection".

The New Yorker

So when the program recorded its 10,000th rebate earlier this month, it merited some pomp.

The New York Times

Namouna foreshadowed the ballets of Diaghilev in that it merited attention more for its musical score than for its choreography.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But many others are put off by Google's cocksure assertion of its own holiness, as if it merited unquestioning trust.

The Economist

I don't think it merited a penalty.

Independent

What could be so important that it merited the interruption?

The Guardian

In this case, our public editor felt it merited front-page display.

The New York Times

The problem, Haidt decided, was widespread enough that it merited further research.

The New Yorker

Fernando Ferrer said that it merited thought, but not in the heat of a campaign.

The New York Times

"Whether it merited an attack that had him in the hospital is certainly another story".

The New York Times - Sports

Although he took responsibility for his tardiness, he did not think it merited a benching.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it merited", ensure the context clearly indicates what action or response was deserved. For example, "The performance was outstanding; it merited a standing ovation."

Common error

Avoid using "it merited" in highly informal or colloquial situations, as it can sound overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "it deserved" or "it earned" in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it merited" functions as a verb phrase, where "merited" is the main verb in the past tense. It is used to express that something was worthy of or deserved a particular action or consideration. Ludwig examples show its frequent usage in news and media contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it merited" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to indicate that something deserved a particular response or action. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples from reliable sources, primarily in the news and media domain. While generally neutral to formal, it's essential to consider the context when choosing between "it merited" and less formal alternatives like "it deserved". By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively use "it merited" in your writing to convey evaluations and justifications with clarity and precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it warranted

Replaces "merited" with "warranted", suggesting a justification for something.

it deserved

Emphasizes the rightfulness of receiving something.

it justified

Indicates that something provided a valid reason or excuse.

it was worthy of

Directly states that something possessed enough value to deserve something.

it was deserving of

Similar to "worthy of", but emphasizes the act of deserving.

it warranted attention

Highlights that something was important enough to be noticed.

it called for

Suggests that a particular action was necessary or appropriate.

it merited consideration

Specifically points out that something deserved to be thought about.

it earned

Implies that something was gained through effort or quality.

it was appropriate for

Suggests the suitability of an action or response in a given situation.

FAQs

How can I use "it merited" in a sentence?

Use "it merited" to indicate that something deserved or was worthy of a particular action or response. For example, "The diligent work "it merited" recognition from the team leader."

What can I say instead of "it merited"?

You can use alternatives like "it deserved", "it warranted", or "it called for" depending on the context.

Is "it merited" formal or informal?

"It merited" is generally considered a more formal expression. In informal contexts, you might prefer "it deserved" or "it earned".

Which is correct, "it merited a response" or "it merited to have a response"?

"It merited a response" is the correct and more concise phrasing. The phrasing "it merited to have a response" is unnecessarily verbose and grammatically awkward.