Benchmarks: meaning, definitions and examples

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benchmarks

 

[ ˈbɛn(t)ʃˌmɑːrk ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

performance evaluation

Benchmarks are standards or points of reference used for comparison or measurement of performance or quality.

Synonyms

criteria, reference points, standards.

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Word Description / Examples
benchmarks

Benchmarks are specific measurements or points of reference used for comparison, usually in performance evaluations. They are often used in business, education, and various industries to measure progress or performance.

  • The company set ambitious benchmarks for quarterly sales.
  • Teachers use state exams as benchmarks to assess student learning.
standards

Standards are accepted levels of quality or attainment. They are typically utilized in regulatory and professional contexts to ensure consistency and quality.

  • All products must meet industry standards before they are released.
  • Healthcare providers adhere to strict standards of care.
criteria

Criteria refer to the principles or standards by which something is judged or decided. It is often used in decision-making processes, assessments, and evaluations where specific standards need to be met.

  • The university outlined its criteria for student admissions.
  • We need to establish clear criteria for evaluating proposals.
reference points

Reference points are specific spots or markers used for guidance and comparison. They are usually employed in contexts where directions or spatial awareness are important.

  • The old oak tree serves as a reference point for hikers in the forest.
  • The lighthouse is a crucial reference point for navigating the coastline.

Examples of usage

  • Companies use benchmarks to assess their progress and performance.
  • The industry benchmarks help companies set realistic goals.
  • Teachers use benchmarks to evaluate students' progress.
  • Performance benchmarks are essential for measuring success in business.
  • Setting benchmarks allows for tracking and improvement over time.
Context #2 | Noun

computing

In computing, benchmarks are tests or programs used to assess the performance of hardware or software.

Synonyms

evaluations, performance measures, tests.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
benchmarks

Used when comparing performance against a standard or set level of performance.

  • We need to set clear benchmarks to measure the success of the project
tests

Used in situations where the primary goal is to examine, investigate, or determine the capabilities or qualities of someone or something.

  • Before launching the new software, multiple tests will be conducted to ensure functionality
evaluations

Used when discussing the overall assessment or judgement of performance, quality, or value.

  • Annual employee evaluations help in identifying areas for improvement
performance measures

Refers to specific metrics or indicators used to quantify the effectiveness and efficiency of an operation.

  • We use various performance measures to track the company's growth

Examples of usage

  • Tech companies use benchmarks to compare the speed of different processors.
  • Running benchmarks can help identify bottlenecks in the system.
  • Gamers often use benchmarks to optimize their gaming experience.

Translations

Translations of the word "benchmarks" in other languages:

🇵🇹 marcos de referência

🇮🇳 मानदंड

🇩🇪 Benchmarks

🇮🇩 tolok ukur

🇺🇦 еталони

🇵🇱 punkty odniesienia

🇯🇵 ベンチマーク

🇫🇷 points de référence

🇪🇸 puntos de referencia

🇹🇷 kıyaslamalar

🇰🇷 벤치마크

🇸🇦 معايير

🇨🇿 benchmarky

🇸🇰 referenčné body

🇨🇳 基准

🇸🇮 merila

🇮🇸 viðmið

🇰🇿 өлшемдер

🇬🇪 სასწორები

🇦🇿 meyarlar

🇲🇽 puntos de referencia

Etymology

The term 'benchmark' originated from the practice of using a physical mark on a workbench as a point of reference for measurement. Over time, it evolved to represent any standard or point of reference for comparison or evaluation. In the computing context, benchmarks became crucial for assessing the performance of hardware and software components.

See also: bench, benches, benchmark, benchtop.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,743, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.