Below standard: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in professional or formal settings to describe something that does not meet expected quality or performance standards.

• The quality of the product is below standard and needs improvement.
• Her work was found to be below standard during the performance review.

Used to emphasize that something does not meet the basic criteria or expectations in an occupational or formal context.

• The construction work was deemed substandard and had to be redone.
• The hotel's hygiene was substandard, causing many guests to complain.

Often carries a negative connotation and is used to describe something of lower quality or value compared to others.

• This brand's electronic devices are considered inferior to those of their competitors.
• He felt inferior after receiving negative feedback on his project.

Used in various contexts, often in feedback or evaluation, to describe something that fails to meet personal or general satisfaction levels.

• Her performance was unsatisfactory, leading to a formal warning.
• The customer service at the restaurant was unsatisfactory.

Used to describe something that does not meet the required or expected quality or performance.

• The workmanship on this project is below standard and needs improvement.
• The results of the test were below standard and require additional study.

Describes the lowest quality or performance that is still considered satisfactory or adequate.

• The product barely meets the minimum acceptable level for safety standards.
• To stay in the course, students must maintain a minimum acceptable level of attendance.

Used to define the principles or standards upon which decisions or judgments are based.

• The criteria for the job include at least five years of experience in a similar role.
• We need to outline the criteria for evaluating the proposals.

Refers to a standard or point of reference against which things can be compared or assessed.

• We need to establish a benchmark to measure the effectiveness of our new strategy.
• This report sets a new benchmark for quality in the industry.