What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
meritorious
Example
The soldier's meritorious service earned him a medal. [meritorious: adjective]
Example
Her meritorious efforts in the field of science have been recognized by many. [meritorious: adjective]
laudable
Example
The organization's laudable efforts to help the homeless have made a significant impact. [laudable: adjective]
Example
It is laudable that he volunteers his time to help those in need. [laudable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Laudable is more commonly used than meritorious in everyday language. Laudable is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while meritorious is less common and often used in specific professional or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between meritorious and laudable?
Meritorious is more formal than laudable. It is often used in legal or military contexts to describe actions or behaviors that merit recognition or reward, while laudable can be used in both formal and informal contexts.