merits

noun

1. plural of merit

2. Intrinsic advantages, as opposed to political or procedural advantages.

- I was the boss's pet project, but was rejected on the merits.

3. (law) Substance, distinguished from form or procedure.

- The merits of the case favored the plaintiffs, but their procedural blunders set them back.

verb

1. third-person singular simple present indicative form of merit