There is merit in
Argumentation and critical discussion expression
字面意思: There exists worth or quality in [the idea]
Use it to validate someone's logic before offering your own perspective or critique.
15秒了解
- A polite way to acknowledge a valid point or idea.
- Used to show respect during a disagreement or debate.
- Best for professional, academic, or serious discussions.
意思
This phrase means that an idea or suggestion has some value or is worth considering. You use it when you don't fully agree with someone but want to show you respect their point of view.
关键例句
3 / 6Brainstorming a marketing strategy
There is merit in focusing on social media, but we shouldn't ignore email.
There is value in focusing on social media, but we shouldn't ignore email.
Discussing a friend's life choice
I think there is merit in your decision to take a gap year.
I think your decision to take a gap year makes sense.
A formal debate about policy
There is merit in the opposition's argument regarding the budget cuts.
The opposition's argument about budget cuts has valid points.
文化背景
The term 'merit' has roots in the Latin 'meritum,' meaning 'reward' or 'value.' In Western intellectual culture, particularly in the UK and US, using this phrase signals that you are engaging in 'principled disagreement.' It became a staple of professional discourse to prevent meetings from turning into shouting matches.
The 'But' Pivot
This phrase is almost always followed by 'but' or 'however.' Use it to soften the blow before you explain why you are going in a different direction.
Don't over-pluralize
While you can say 'the merits of' (plural), the phrase 'There is merit in' usually stays singular. Saying 'There are merits in' sounds slightly clunky.
15秒了解
- A polite way to acknowledge a valid point or idea.
- Used to show respect during a disagreement or debate.
- Best for professional, academic, or serious discussions.
What It Means
There is merit in is a sophisticated way to say 'that's a good point.' It suggests that an idea has logical value or practical benefits. You aren't saying the idea is perfect. You are saying it deserves a seat at the table. It is the verbal equivalent of a thoughtful nod while drinking tea.
How To Use It
Use it followed by a noun or a gerund (an -ing verb). For example, There is merit in your plan or There is merit in waiting. It usually starts a sentence to set a respectful tone. It acts as a bridge between two different opinions. It helps you stay polite while you prepare to pivot to your own idea.
When To Use It
Use this during a debate or a brainstorming session. It works perfectly when a coworker suggests something slightly crazy. You want to be kind but realistic. It is great for academic writing or high-level business emails. Use it when you want to sound like the most reasonable person in the room. It shows you are listening, not just waiting for your turn to speak.
When NOT To Use It
Don't use this for simple, factual things. If someone says the sky is blue, don't say There is merit in that. You will sound like a robot. Avoid it in very emotional or casual settings. If your partner asks if they look good, do not say There is merit in that outfit. That is a one-way ticket to the sofa. Keep it for ideas, strategies, and arguments.
Cultural Background
This expression comes from the legal and academic traditions of the English-speaking world. It treats conversation like a court of law or a philosophy club. It reflects a cultural value of 'fair play.' Even if we disagree, we acknowledge the logic in the opponent's stance. It is very British in its understated politeness.
Common Variations
There is some merit to...(Adds a bit of hesitation)I can see the merit in...(Makes it more personal)The idea has merit.(Short, punchy, and decisive)A proposal of great merit.(Very formal and high-praise)
使用说明
This is a C2-level expression because it requires a nuanced understanding of tone. It sits firmly in the formal/professional register. Avoid using it in high-emotion arguments with loved ones as it can sound dismissive or cold.
The 'But' Pivot
This phrase is almost always followed by 'but' or 'however.' Use it to soften the blow before you explain why you are going in a different direction.
Don't over-pluralize
While you can say 'the merits of' (plural), the phrase 'There is merit in' usually stays singular. Saying 'There are merits in' sounds slightly clunky.
The Academic 'No'
In British universities, if a professor says 'There is merit in your essay,' they often mean 'You are wrong, but you tried hard.' Pay attention to the tone!
例句
6There is merit in focusing on social media, but we shouldn't ignore email.
There is value in focusing on social media, but we shouldn't ignore email.
Validates the first idea before adding a 'but'.
I think there is merit in your decision to take a gap year.
I think your decision to take a gap year makes sense.
Shows support for a serious personal choice.
There is merit in the opposition's argument regarding the budget cuts.
The opposition's argument about budget cuts has valid points.
High-level acknowledgment of an opponent.
There's merit in waiting until Monday to send the report.
It makes sense to wait until Monday for the report.
Slightly more relaxed but still professional.
There is merit in your 'all-pizza diet' theory, but my doctor might disagree.
Your pizza diet idea has some logic, but it's probably unhealthy.
Uses formal language for a silly topic to create irony.
There was merit in the original concept; the timing was just wrong.
The original idea was good; the timing was just bad.
Focuses on the value of the idea to provide comfort.
自我测试
Choose the correct word to complete the formal acknowledgment.
While I disagree with the conclusion, there is ___ in your research methods.
In this idiom, 'merit' is used as an uncountable noun meaning 'worth' or 'value'.
Complete the sentence with the correct preposition.
There is a great deal of merit ___ exploring alternative energy sources.
The standard colocation for this expression is 'merit in' followed by an -ing verb or noun.
🎉 得分： /2
视觉学习工具
Formality Spectrum of 'There is merit in'
Talking to a sibling about dinner.
Good point.
Chatting with a coworker.
That makes sense.
Boardroom or Academic paper.
There is merit in this approach.
Legal or Diplomatic context.
The court finds merit in the plaintiff's claim.
When to use 'There is merit in'
Reviewing a Book
There is merit in the author's unique perspective.
Office Meeting
There is merit in delaying the launch.
Debating Politics
There is merit in both sides of the tax debate.
Giving Advice
There is merit in taking things slow.
常见问题
10 个问题Not exactly. 'Good' is a general positive, while 'merit' specifically refers to intellectual or functional value. Using There is merit in suggests the idea is logical, even if it isn't perfect.
Yes, but it might sound a bit 'fancy' or sarcastic. If you use it when choosing a movie, like There is merit in watching a horror film, your friends might think you're acting like a professor.
Both are used! There is merit in [doing something] is very common for actions. There is merit to [an idea] is often used for static concepts. They are mostly interchangeable.
It means you agree with their *logic*, but not necessarily their *conclusion*. It's a way to say 'I see how you got there' without saying 'I'm joining you.'
Yes, it is very common in American professional and legal settings. It is a standard part of 'Corporate Speak' in the US.
Absolutely. Use There is no merit in that argument to completely dismiss an idea as valueless or illogical. It is quite a strong statement.
It sounds like 'MEH-rit.' The first syllable rhymes with 'bed' or 'red.'
The opposite would be There is no basis for or That is groundless. These suggest an idea has no supporting facts.
It is very common in both, but you will see it more often in editorials, reviews, and formal reports. In speech, it's reserved for serious discussions.
No, we don't usually say There is merit in him. Instead, you would say He has a lot of merit or He is a person of merit.
相关表达
Hold water
When an argument or theory is sound and logical.
Food for thought
Something worth thinking about seriously.
Valid point
An argument that is true or relevant.
To have a case
To have enough evidence or logic to support an idea.
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