The five contestants will be judged 'on their own merits'. [=they will be judged by looking at their skills and their good and bad qualities]
Hiring decisions are based entirely 'on merit'. [=people are hired because they have the skills to do the job well]
We should consider each idea 'on its merits'. [=we should consider the good and bad things about each idea]
(..) DAENERYS: I'll have to make some changes in the Citadel when I take my throne. A great service merits a great reward. SAMWELL: Oh, it's my honor to serve you, Your Grace. DAENERYS: Well, there must be something I could give you. If it's not too much trouble, (..)2019 TvShow: Game of Thrones Title: Winterfell Season: 8 Episode 1