功劳 (gōng láo) refers to meritorious service or the credit one receives for a significant achievement, often in a team or organizational context. It emphasizes recognition and is commonly used in phrases like 立功劳 (to earn merit) or 抢功劳 (to take credit). This differs from 贡献 (gòng xiàn), which focuses on the act of contributing itself, and from 功 (gōng), a broader term for achievement or merit.