merece
meh-REH-say
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
Él siempre trabaja duro, merece el ascenso.
A2He always works hard; he deserves the promotion.
¿Qué tipo de premio merece un esfuerzo tan grande?
B1What kind of prize does such a huge effort deserve?
Usted merece una disculpa sincera por el error.
B2You (formal) deserve a sincere apology for the mistake.
💡 Grammar Points
The C→ZC Change
In the 'yo' form of the present tense (I deserve), the 'c' changes to 'zc' (merezco). This irregularity is common for verbs ending in -ecer, like 'conocer' (to know) and 'parecer' (to seem).
The Meaning of 'Merece'
'Merece' is the form used for 'he/she/it deserves' and the polite 'you deserves' (usted). Remember that Spanish only uses 'merece' for one person, unlike English 'deserves' which works for many nouns.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Forgetting the Z
Mistake: "Using 'yo mereco' instead of 'yo merezco'."
Correction: The correct 'I' form is 'merezco'. This Z sound helps distinguish it from other forms.
⭐ Usage Tips
Using 'Merecer' with Actions
You can follow 'merece' directly with an action verb in its base form (infinitive): 'Merece descansar' (He deserves to rest).
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: merece
Question 1 of 2
Which Spanish pronoun uses the verb form 'merece'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I say 'it's worth it' using the root verb 'merecer'?
The common phrase is 'Merece la pena.' For example, 'Viajar a ese lugar merece la pena' (Traveling to that place is worth the trouble/effort).
Is 'merece' always about positive things?
No. While often used for rewards or recognition, 'merece' can also be used for negative consequences, like 'Merece un castigo' (He deserves a punishment).