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Meritocracy: meaning, pronunciation and examples
Meritocracy noun. A system in which people are chosen and rewarded for their ability and achievements rather than wealth or birth.
How to say it
merr-ih-TOK-ruh-see/ˌmɛrɪˈtɒkrəsi/
5 syllables, stressed on the third (TOK). Forms: meritocratic.
Meritocracy in a sentence
The orchestra prides itself on meritocracy: every audition is played behind a screen.
Critics argue that a meritocracy can harden into a new elite that hands its advantages down.
Similar and opposite
Similar:
- merit system
- fair competition
Opposite:
- aristocracy
- nepotism
Where meritocracy comes from
Popularised by Michael Young's satirical 1958 book The Rise of the Meritocracy.
Test yourself
Which word fills the gap?
Critics argue that a _____ can harden into a new elite that hands its advantages down.
- meritocracy
- irredentism
- utopia
Show the answer
meritocracy: Critics argue that a meritocracy can harden into a new elite that hands its advantages down.