of outstanding merit

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "of outstanding merit" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is exceptionally good or valuable, often in formal contexts such as evaluations, recommendations, or awards. Example: "The research paper was recognized for its contributions to the field and was deemed to be of outstanding merit."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Amateur companies of outstanding merit were given the title "people's theatre".

Encyclopedia Britannica

In 2011 Hare received the PEN Pinter Prize, given to a British writer of outstanding merit.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In every sense, he is a public servant of outstanding merit.

The Guardian - Opinion

Fine arts and crafts have many practitioners, some of outstanding merit, often supported in their work by grants from the Department of Tourism, Arts and the Environment.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Speaking after the announcement, Gray described the longlist as "an absolute delight... Our decision has resulted in a spectrum arching from several new novels of outstanding merit, to exciting new books from important and established authors.

The Guardian - Books

It was established two years ago to celebrate Nobel laureate Harold Pinter and is given annually to a British writer of outstanding merit who casts an "unflinching, unswerving" gaze upon the world.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

By 1915 Bowen had executed a group of experimental studies that proved to be critically important to petrology and formed the basis of his critical review The Later Stages of the Evolution of the Igneous Rocks (1915), a paper of such outstanding merit that it established Bowen's position at the age of 28 as an international figure in petrology.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The outstanding merit of this particular design is the avoidance of water hydrolysis between electrodes, which is inevitable in stacks built with a shared fuel tank.

Journal of Power Sources

However, Ni catalysts have been most widely used because of their outstanding merits with respect to cost and catalytic activity.

Catalysis Communications

The Hampton Mansion and remaining 43 acre of the Ridgely estate were designated a National Historic Site by the Secretary of the Interior on June 22, 1948 the first site to be so selected on the basis of its historical significance and "outstanding merit as an architectural monument".

Wikipedia

The mark of Caesar's genius in his writings is that though they were written for propaganda they are nevertheless of outstanding literary merit.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "of outstanding merit" to formally recognize exceptional achievements, contributions, or qualities. It's well-suited for award citations, formal evaluations, and official commendations.

Common error

Avoid using "of outstanding merit" in casual conversation or informal writing. Its formality can sound stilted or pretentious outside of official or academic settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "of outstanding merit" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It indicates that the noun it describes possesses exceptional qualities or achievements, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples where it modifies terms like "writer", "public servant", and "novels".

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

28%

Encyclopedias

24%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

20%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "of outstanding merit" is a formal expression used to denote exceptional quality, achievement, or value. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides examples showing its common use in academic, news, and official contexts. While appropriate for formal settings like award citations and evaluations, it should be used sparingly in casual conversation to avoid sounding pretentious. Consider alternatives such as "of exceptional quality" or "of notable excellence" to convey similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

of notable excellence

Similar to "outstanding merit", but with a slightly different emphasis on the quality of being excellent.

of exceptional quality

Focuses on the high standard of the quality itself, rather than the recognition of merit.

of remarkable distinction

Emphasizes the characteristic of being notably different and superior.

of extraordinary caliber

Highlights the high level of competence or ability.

of considerable value

Highlights the worth or importance of something.

of significant importance

Stresses the relevance and weight of something.

of admirable worth

Highlights the praiseworthy quality and value of something.

of surpassing brilliance

Emphasizes the exceptional intellectual or creative quality.

of estimable standing

Indicates a respected and highly regarded position or reputation.

of great repute

Focuses on the positive public perception and recognition.

FAQs

How can I use "of outstanding merit" in a sentence?

This phrase is typically used to describe something or someone that is exceptionally good or valuable. For instance, "The project was recognized as being of outstanding merit.".

What are some alternatives to "of outstanding merit"?

Alternatives include "of exceptional quality", "of remarkable distinction", or "of notable excellence", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "of outstanding merit"?

This phrase is most appropriate in formal contexts, such as when giving awards, writing evaluations, or making official commendations. Avoid using it in informal or casual settings.

Is there a difference between "of exceptional merit" and "of outstanding merit"?

While both phrases are similar, "of outstanding merit" may imply a slightly higher degree of recognition or achievement. However, in most cases, they are interchangeable.