Reading Theme:
Demerit Definition, Examples & Usage Guide (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：a flaw or disadvantage (demerit)
demerit
/dɪˈmɛrɪt/
n.
A bad part or disadvantage of something, like a flaw in an object.
a flaw or disadvantage
➕
/flɔː ɔːr dɪsədˈvæntɪdʒ/
n.
A negative aspect or shortcoming of something, often in products, systems, or ideas that reduces its overall value or effectiveness.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'de-' (away, lack) + 'meritum' (desert, merit), literally meaning 'lack of merit'.
💡 Mnemonic
De-merit: De- (bad) + merit (good) = a bad mark or a flaw.
📖 Example
The new laptop is lightweight, but its short battery life is a significant demerit for travelers.
The new laptop is lightweight, but its short battery life is a significant demerit for travelers.
🔗 Collocations
major demerit – a serious flaw or disadvantage
demerit of the system – a negative feature of a particular system
weigh the merits and demerits – to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages
🔄 Synonyms
drawback (n.) – a disadvantage or problem that makes something less attractive
flaw (n.) – a mark, fault, or imperfection that mars a substance or object
shortcoming (n.) – a fault or failure to meet a certain standard
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
demeritorious (adj.) – deserving blame or censure; having faults
📖 Cultural Story
In 19th-century British and American schools, demerit systems were introduced to track minor infractions; accumulating enough demerits could lead to detention or expulsion. The term is also used in business and law to denote a flaw or negative point.
Meaning 2：a penalty mark (demerit)
demerit
/dɪˈmɛrɪt/
n.
A mark or record given for bad behavior, often in schools as a disciplinary action.
a penalty mark
➕
/ˈpɛnəlti mɑːrk/
n.
A negative mark or record given for a rule violation, especially in schools, which may accumulate to lead to further punishment.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The student received a demerit for talking during the exam, which affected his final conduct grade.
The student received a demerit for talking during the exam, which affected his final conduct grade.
🔗 Collocations
earn a demerit – to receive a demerit for misbehavior
demerit system – a school policy that records demerits for rule violations
accumulate demerits – to collect several demerits over time
🔄 Synonyms
black mark (n.) – a record of a person's misdemeanor or unsatisfactory performance
penalty point (n.) – a unit used to count offenses in a disciplinary system
infraction note (n.) – a written record of a minor violation
🚫 Antonyms
commendation (n.) – an award or formal praise for good behavior
reward (n.) – something given in recognition of good conduct
credit (n.) – positive recognition for achievement or good behavior
🌱 Derivatives
demerit system (n.) – a disciplinary system that uses demerits as punishment
Wordbook
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