mérito
Lemma Details
Translation: merit; worth; credit; achievement; virtue
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: From Latin 'meritum' meaning 'earned, deserved', derived from the verb 'merere' (to earn, deserve). The English word 'merit' shares the same Latin root, making them cognates. The concept of 'merit' as something earned through effort or excellence has remained consistent across both languages since Roman times.
Commonality: 70%
Guessability: 80%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Sounds like 'merit' in English - they mean the same thing!
- Think: 'Me-rito' - 'I deserve a ritual of recognition' for my achievements.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Cultural Context
In Spanish-speaking cultures, 'mérito' is often associated with professional and academic achievement. The concept is important in educational systems and workplace environments where recognition based on merit is valued. It's frequently used in discussions about social mobility and fairness in opportunity.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: 'Mérito' (with accent) is the correct spelling meaning 'merit', while 'merito' (without accent) is simply a misspelling.
Notes: The accent mark changes the stress pattern of the word, placing emphasis on the first syllable.
Mnemonic: The accent in 'mérito' emphasizes its worth and importance!
Explanation: While they look somewhat similar, 'mérito' means 'merit' or 'worth', whereas 'mentira' means 'lie' or 'falsehood'.
Confused word:
No me digas una mentira.
Don't tell me a lie.
Notes: These words have completely different meanings and etymologies despite some visual similarity.
Mnemonic: 'Mérito' has worth, while 'mentira' has an 'n' for 'not true'.