What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deserve
Example
You deserve a promotion for all the hard work you've put in. [deserve: verb]
Example
I think he deserves a fair trial before any judgment is made. [deserves: present tense]
merit
Example
This project has great merit and should be recognized. [merit: noun]
Example
The student's essay merits an A grade for its thorough research and analysis. [merits: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deserve is more commonly used than merit in everyday language, but both words are appropriate in different contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between deserve and merit?
Merit is more formal than deserve and is often used in academic or professional settings to recognize achievements or abilities.
