The word ‘meritorious’ is often used to describe something or someone worthy of praise, recognition, or reward. It carries a strong positive connotation and is typically associated with actions, achievements, or qualities that are considered admirable. Understanding the meaning of ‘meritorious’ involves exploring its definition, usage in different contexts, and its significance in everyday language. Whether used in professional, educational, or personal settings, ‘meritorious’ is a term that conveys excellence and value, making it an important word to grasp for effective communication.
Definition of Meritorious
In its simplest form, the wordmeritoriousis an adjective that means deserving of merit or praise. It is derived from the Latin word ‘meritorius,’ which means ‘that for which money is paid,’ and further from ‘meritum,’ meaning ‘deserved.’ Over time, the term has come to refer to something that has earned recognition through worth or excellence.
Dictionary Meaning
According to most English dictionaries, the term ‘meritorious’ is defined as:
- Deserving reward or praise
- Worthy of honor due to virtue, achievement, or character
- Having merit; commendable or admirable
Examples in Sentences
To better understand its usage, here are a few examples of how ‘meritorious’ can be used in sentences:
- ‘She received a medal for her meritorious service during the disaster relief effort.’
- ‘The student was honored for his meritorious academic performance.’
- ‘Only the most meritorious candidates will be selected for the scholarship.’
Contexts in Which Meritorious Is Used
The term ‘meritorious’ is applicable in a variety of contexts, often highlighting achievements or qualities that are highly valued.
Academic and Professional Settings
In education and the workplace, ‘meritorious’ is often used to acknowledge high-performing individuals. A student with excellent grades, strong moral conduct, and leadership qualities may be called a meritorious student. Likewise, in professional environments, an employee who goes above and beyond in their duties may be recognized for meritorious service.
Military and Public Service
In the military or public sector, awards and honors often include the term. For instance, Meritorious Conduct Medal or Meritorious Service Award are commonly given to individuals who demonstrate bravery, dedication, or significant contributions.
Legal Context
In legal language, ‘meritorious’ may be used to describe a claim, case, or argument that has substance and is likely to succeed based on its own merit. A ‘meritorious claim’ is one that is valid and supported by facts or legal reasoning.
Synonyms and Related Words
Understanding synonyms of ‘meritorious’ can help expand vocabulary and improve clarity in communication. Some common synonyms include:
- Admirable
- Praiseworthy
- Commendable
- Noteworthy
- Laudable
- Deserving
Each of these words has a slightly different nuance but shares the core idea of recognizing excellence or value.
Antonyms of Meritorious
Just as it’s useful to know synonyms, it’s equally helpful to understand antonyms of ‘meritorious’ to fully grasp its meaning. Some antonyms include:
- Unworthy
- Blameworthy
- Dishonorable
- Shameful
- Undeserving
Origins and Etymology
The word ‘meritorious’ dates back to the late Middle English period. It was borrowed from the Latin word ‘meritorius,’ related to ‘meritum’ meaning ‘merit’ or ‘due reward.’ Over centuries, the term has retained its core meaning of worthiness and recognition, becoming a staple in formal English usage.
Why Understanding ‘Meritorious’ Matters
Words like ‘meritorious’ are useful because they help us express respect, admiration, and validation. In many formal or evaluative situations, such as writing recommendation letters, giving performance reviews, or recognizing excellence in a speech, using the right word matters. ‘Meritorious’ carries a sense of dignity and formality that enhances communication.
Educational Importance
For students learning English, especially for academic or professional purposes, understanding and using the word ‘meritorious’ correctly can improve writing and speaking skills. It is also frequently encountered in literature, news topics, and official documents.
Building a Strong Vocabulary
Adding words like ‘meritorious’ to one’s vocabulary not only enriches expression but also prepares individuals for advanced comprehension and articulation. Such words often appear in competitive exams, essays, and job applications.
Common Phrases and Expressions
While ‘meritorious’ is not typically part of idiomatic expressions, it is often found in phrases such as:
- Meritorious achievement
- Meritorious conduct
- Meritorious award
- Meritorious distinction
These phrases are frequently used in certificates, reports, and official documents recognizing someone’s success or contribution.
How to Use Meritorious in Writing
To use the word effectively in writing, consider these tips:
- Use it in formal or semi-formal contexts where recognition is being given.
- Pair it with nouns like service, performance, conduct, or effort.
- Ensure the tone matches the weight of the word, avoiding casual or sarcastic use.
Examples in Formal Writing
Here are examples of how ‘meritorious’ might be used in formal writing:
- ‘Her meritorious efforts in community development were acknowledged by the mayor.’
- ‘The scholarship was granted to meritorious students from underprivileged backgrounds.’
Understanding the meaning of ‘meritorious’ opens the door to expressing appreciation and value in a refined and accurate way. Whether you are recognizing a person’s success, describing someone’s outstanding behavior, or evaluating a worthwhile effort, this term adds depth and precision. With its origins rooted in worth and reward, ‘meritorious’ is a powerful word that brings dignity and recognition into any conversation or written piece. By incorporating it into your vocabulary, you gain a valuable tool for both formal and meaningful expression.