merit
Related to merit: merit system
judge (one) on (one's) own merits
To form an opinion, estimation, or determination about one based solely on one's own strengths and weaknesses, to the exclusion of any other related person or thing. I know my father was an incredible actor, but I just want to be judged on my own merits. I know there is a lot of controversy surrounding the company she previously worked for, but, judged on her own merits, she's definitely the best fit for the job.
See also: judge, merit, on, own
judge (something) on its own merits
To form an opinion, estimation, or determination about something based solely on its own strengths and weaknesses, to the exclusion of any other related person or thing. It has been a very challenging process developing the game, with some controversial decisions along the way that some fans are not happy about. But we are asking people to please just judge the final product on its own merits. The film is actually very good, judged on its own merits, but it ultimately fails to deliver a satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.
See also: judge, merit, on, own
on (someone's or something's) (own) merits
Objectively based on or due to someone's or something's actual qualities, actions, etc. (as opposed to other, less objective factors). I can assure you that she got the job on her own merits and not because she is the CEO's daughter.
See also: merit, on
on the merits
According to or based on facts or qualities essential to a person or situation, as opposed to circumstantial or technical details. Usually used in reference to a decision by a judge in a legal case. The defense filed a motion for dismissal based on the prosecution's failure to include the new evidence in the discovery phase, but the judged ruled that the case would be heard on the merits.
See also: merit, on
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
judge one on one's own merits
to evaluate one on one's own good and bad points and no one else's. Please judge Janet on her own merits. I was judged on my own merits.
See also: judge, merit, on, one, own
judge something on its own merits
to evaluate something on its own good and bad points and nothing else. You must judge this proposal on its own merits. The proposal has not been judged on its own merits.
See also: judge, merit, on, own
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
on its merits
Also, on one's merits or according to one's merits . With regard only to the intrinsic quality of something or someone. For example, Who supports it doesn't matter; we have to consider the idea solely on its merits, or The agency doesn't care about her references but wants to hire candidates according to their merits . [Late 1800s]
See also: merit, on
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer.
- judge (one) on (one's) own merits
- judge one on own merits
- judge (something) on its own merits
- judge on its own merits
- judge between
- judge between (someone or something) (and someone or something else)
- know thyself
- thyself
- beat somebody at their own game
- beat someone at their own game