C1verb1K

Merge

UK /["/mɜːdʒ/","/ˈmɜːdʒɪz/","/mɜːdʒd/","/ˈmɜːdʒɪŋ/"]/US /["/mɜːrdʒ/","/ˈmɜːrdʒɪz/","/mɜːrdʒd/","/ˈmɜːrdʒɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to combine or make two or more things combine to form a single thing

In simple words: To combine two or more things into one.

Examples

  • The two companies decided to merge to increase their market share.
  • When driving, make sure to signal before you merge onto the highway.
  • The river merges with a larger one downstream.
  • The software allows users to merge multiple documents into a single file.
  • Several lanes merge into one as you approach the tunnel.
  • To streamline workflows, the departments decided to merge their databases.

Usage notes

Use when talking about combining ideas, companies, or data. It's appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, such as business or technology.

Grammar pattern

merge + object

Memory hint

Think of 'merging lanes on a highway'—two lanes coming together into one.

Collocations

  • merge data
  • merge companies
  • merge cells
  • merge ideas
  • merge accounts

Synonyms

  • combine
  • unite
  • consolidate
  • fuse
  • integrate

Antonyms

  • split
  • divide

Common mistakes

  • Confusing with 'marge', which is not a valid word.
  • Using 'merge' without an object; remember it needs something to merge.
  • Omitting the 's' in present tense for third person (e.g., 'he merge' instead of 'he merges').