just to clarify what you are trying to do:
You are trying to find which database entries contain a list of things (word1, word2) instead of just 1 thing (word1) and are trying to use “merged with” to get there, right?
if for your repeating group you use, do a search for:filtered and then select Advanced you can select a filter such as This Users list of skills contains list …
depending on if you use an input, or what kind of system you use, it may differ. Pm me if you need more help and want to do screen share.