regardless of merit

USAGE SUMMARY

"regardless of merit" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is not dependent on or affected by the quality or worth of something else. It can be used in various contexts, such as in a discussion, argument, or decision-making process. Example: "Although she had worked tirelessly on the project, she was denied a promotion regardless of merit." In this sentence, the speaker is highlighting that the decision to not promote the person was not based on the quality of their work, but rather on other factors.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

And many of these cases, regardless of merit, gain little attention.

The New York Times

Projects with political backing win funding, regardless of merit, while more worthwhile projects languish for decades.

The New York Times

It will fall on the just and unjust alike, regardless of merit.

The New York Times

No limits were placed on participation; anyone working in the neighborhood, regardless of merit, was extended an invitation.

The New York Times

It reminded viewers that if there is an archetypal Delaunay, it is one of his "Tour Eiffels," regardless of merit.

The New York Times - Arts

Because few lawyers are ever sanctioned, the system creates an incentive to file as many cases as possible, regardless of merit.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

"Talx often files appeals regardless of merits," said Jonathan P. Baird, a lawyer at New Hampshire Legal Assistance.

The New York Times

Regardless of artistic merit, it's getting … 0/10 GM.

The Guardian

Regardless of its merit, your candidacy is easily steamrolled by someone with more money to spend than you.

The New York Times

These same cynics are typically those who also whisper about women being offered senior roles regardless of their merit.

The Guardian - Opinion

But regardless of the merit of reform, no Tory prime minister could touch the rebate won in 1984 by Margaret Thatcher.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "regardless of merit" to clearly indicate that evaluations or decisions are made on criteria other than skill, quality, or worth. This can add emphasis or highlight potential unfairness or bias in a situation.

Common error

Avoid using "regardless of merit" when you actually intend to convey that something does possess merit. The phrase should only be used when merit is explicitly not a factor.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "regardless of merit" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically used as an adverbial modifier. It modifies a verb, adjective, or clause to indicate that the action or state is not influenced by considerations of quality, skill, or worth. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

23%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "regardless of merit" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that indicates something is considered or enacted without regard to quality or worth. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and utility across diverse contexts. It is most commonly found in news and media, science, and formal business settings. While related phrases like "irrespective of worth" or "without regard to quality" can provide stylistic variation, it's important to maintain the original meaning and intent. Effective use involves emphasizing impartiality or alternative criteria, while avoiding its misapplication when merit is, in fact, a relevant factor. Always ensure the context aligns with its core meaning: that evaluations and decisions are made on criteria other than skill, quality, or worth. Finally, although "irregardless" may be heard, stick with the correct and universally accepted form: "regardless".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

irrespective of worth

Replaces "merit" with "worth", maintaining a formal tone but slightly altering the emphasis to overall value rather than specific accomplishments.

without regard to quality

Focuses on the "quality" aspect, suggesting that the standard or excellence of something is not a factor.

merit notwithstanding

Uses "notwithstanding" to indicate that merit, although possibly present, does not affect the outcome or situation.

despite any value

Highlights that something occurs even if there is a positive value or merit present.

irrespective of achievement

Similar to "regardless of merit", this emphasizes that accomplishment is not a determining factor.

without consideration of desert

Desert refers to what one deserves, either positive or negative, based on their actions. This option implies that deservingness isn't taken into account.

disregarding competence

Specifically targets competence as the irrelevant factor, suitable when discussing skills or abilities.

without respect to excellence

Emphasizes that excellence is not a criterion in the situation, often used in contexts where high standards are expected.

not based on qualification

This alternative directly states that qualifications are not the basis for a decision or action.

independent of skill

Highlights that skill level is not a relevant factor, suitable for situations where expertise might be expected.

FAQs

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

You can use "regardless of merit" to indicate that something is happening or being considered without taking into account someone's achievements, abilities, or qualities. For example: "The applications were accepted "regardless of merit", leading to a diverse group of candidates".

What's a good alternative to "regardless of merit"?

Alternatives include "irrespective of worth", "without regard to quality", or "despite any value" depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "irregardless of merit"?

While "irregardless" is sometimes used, it's considered nonstandard. "Regardless" is the preferred and grammatically correct choice. Thus, "regardless of merit" is correct, while "irregardless of merit" is not.

What is the difference between "regardless of merit" and "regardless of merits"?

"Regardless of merit" refers to a general quality or worth, while "regardless of merits" suggests specific positive features or advantages. "The decision was made "regardless of merit"" implies that quality wasn't considered. "The case was decided "regardless of merits"" suggests specific strengths were ignored.