Criteria: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when discussing multiple standards or principles used to judge or decide something.

• The selection criteria for the scholarship include academic performance and community service.
• There are several criteria we must meet to qualify for the project.

Use when referring to a level of quality or attainment that is accepted as normal or average.

• The organization has high standards for its employees.
• Meeting the industry standards is crucial for market entry.

Use when discussing a standard or unit to quantify or assess something.

• The effectiveness of the new policy will be difficult to measure.
• Weight is a common measure used in science.

Use when referring to a specific standard or point of reference against which things are compared or assessed.

• We set a high benchmark for customer satisfaction this quarter.
• The test scores will serve as a benchmark for future assessments.

Use when referring to a general rule or piece of advice meant to steer behavior or decisions.

• The health department issued new dietary guidelines.
• Follow the guidelines provided in the manual to complete the installation.

Use when referring to a single standard or principle used to judge or decide something.

• The primary criterion for selection is academic excellence.
• One key criterion for the job is the ability to work under pressure.

Used when listing the standards or rules by which something is judged or decided.

• The main criteria for the job are experience and skills
• We need to establish clear criteria for evaluating the project

Used when referring to levels of quality or attainment that are considered acceptable or desirable.

• The standard of cleanliness in the hotel was very high
• Our company maintains high standards of customer service

Used when talking about something that is used for comparison to measure or judge other things.

• Her work serves as a reference point for future studies
• Use this manual as a reference point for your project

Used when referring to the fundamental principles or reasons on which something is based.

• His argument has a solid basis in scientific research
• She made decisions on the basis of available data

Used informally to measure or judge something, typically involving strict or critical comparison.

• His success is often used as a yardstick for others
• Market share is an important yardstick for performance

Used when referring to a standard or point of reference against which things can be compared or assessed.

• This new model sets a benchmark for performance
• Sales figures are below the industry benchmark

Used when referring to a standard or set of standards by which something is judged or decided.

• The criteria for the scholarship include academic achievement and community service.
• You need to meet all the criteria to qualify for the job.

Used when referring to a quality or feature regarded as a characteristic or inherent part of someone or something.

• Patience is a valuable attribute in a teacher.
• The success of the project was attributed to everyone's hard work.

Refers to a typical feature or quality that serves to identify someone or something.

• One characteristic of modern smartphones is their high-resolution cameras.
• Generosity is a characteristic that defines him.

Often used to describe a specific characteristic or quality, typically referring to personality or behavior.

• Compassion is a trait that endears her to others.
• One of his distinguishing traits is his punctuality.

Refers to an inherent or distinguishing characteristic or property, often denoting something positive.

• Honesty is a quality that everyone should have.
• The quality of the fabric is excellent.

Refers to a distinctive attribute or aspect of something, often used in marketing or when describing products.

• The new software has several features that improve usability.
• One of the most notable features of the car is its fuel efficiency.