Standard: meaning, definitions and examples

📏

Add to dictionary

standard

[ˈstændərd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

quality

Something considered by an authority or by general consent as a basis of comparison; an approved model.

Synonyms

benchmark, criteria, model, norm.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
standard	Use when referring to something that is widely accepted as normal or typical in a particular field. ISO 9001 is an international standard for quality management systems. Our products meet the highest safety standards.
benchmark	This is useful when comparing something against a reference point to measure performance or quality. We use last year's sales data as a benchmark to set this year's targets. The new software set a benchmark for usability in the industry.
norm	This word is best when indicating what is typical or standard in a social or statistical sense. Wearing masks has become the norm in many countries.
criteria	Use when listing specific principles or standards by which something may be judged or decided. The hiring process includes several criteria such as experience and education. To qualify for the award, you must meet the following criteria.
model	Useful when referring to an example or system that is used to follow or imitate, often in theoretical or systematic scenarios. This business model has proven successful for small startups. She serves as a role model for younger athletes.

Examples of usage

This book is the standard by which all others must be judged.
The standard for excellence in this industry is very high.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

flag

A flag serving as an emblem of a particular nation, state, or society.

Synonyms

banner, ensign, flag.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
standard	Typically used to refer to a level of quality or an accepted norm in various fields, such as industry, education, and behavior. It can also refer to a military or ceremonial flag. The school maintains high academic standards. The soldiers marched under their unit's standard.
banner	Often used for advertisements, celebrations, or protests. It refers to a long strip of cloth or a digital graphic that displays a slogan, message, or logo. The banner for the charity event was colorful. They hung a banner across the street to announce the festival.
ensign	Primarily used in naval contexts to refer to a flag that indicates the nationality of a ship. It can also refer to a low-ranking officer in the navy. The ship hoisted its ensign as it entered the harbor. The young ensign was eager to prove himself.
flag	A piece of cloth with a distinctive design used as a symbol or signal, commonly representing a country, organization, or cause. Also used metaphorically to indicate a warning or to catch attention. The national flag was raised during the ceremony. The lifeguard flagged the swimmers about the strong currents.

Examples of usage

The American flag is a symbol of freedom and democracy.
The Olympic flag is a standard of unity among nations.

^{Context #3 | Adjective}

usual

Used or accepted as normal or average.

Synonyms

common, regular, typical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
standard	Used when something is an established norm or widely accepted practice. This is the standard procedure for all employees The standard outfit for the event includes a suit and tie
typical	Used to describe something that represents a characteristic or usual example of a particular group or thing. It's typical for him to be late The weather in April is typical for this region
common	Used for something found often or something that many people have or experience. It is common to see people walking their dogs in this park This is a common problem among teenagers
regular	Used to describe something that happens at fixed intervals or something that is usual for a specific situation. He is a regular customer at this café We have regular meetings every Monday

Examples of usage

It's standard practice to arrive 15 minutes early for a meeting.
The standard size for a pizza is 12 inches in diameter.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old French 'estandard' which meant a rallying sign or flag.
Originally, it referred to something that could stand up, like a banner or flag used in battle.
In Middle English, it evolved to mean a level or measure used for comparison.

Cultural Impacts

The Industrial Revolution led to the creation of manufacturing standards to ensure product safety and reliability.
In music, 'standards' are recognized songs widely performed, creating a shared repertoire among musicians.
In education, standardized testing emerged to assess student performance uniformly across schools.

Science and Technology

In science, standards are essential to accurately measure and compare results in research.
Technology often relies on standards for compatibility among devices, such as USB or Wi-Fi protocols.
The development of international standards helps promote trade by ensuring that products meet agreed criteria worldwide.

Psychology

Cognitive dissonance occurs when personal standards clash with behavior, creating discomfort.
Psychologists suggest that having high personal standards can motivate individuals but may also lead to stress if unrealistic.
Social norms act as standards for behavior within groups, influencing how we act to fit in.

Literature

In literature, a 'standard' can often refer to a common trope or theme that many stories might use.
Authors may set their own writing standards, leading to unique style development that influences others.
Classical literary standards often dictate what is considered great literature, affecting education and readership over time.

Translations

Translations of the word "standard" in other languages:

🇵🇹 padrão

🇮🇳 मानक

🇩🇪 Standard

🇮🇩 standar

🇺🇦 стандарт

🇵🇱 standard

🇯🇵 標準 (ひょうじゅん)

🇫🇷 standard

🇪🇸 estándar

🇹🇷 standart

🇰🇷 표준 (pyojun)

🇸🇦 معيار

🇨🇿 standard

🇸🇰 štandard

🇨🇳 标准 (biāozhǔn)

🇸🇮 standard

🇮🇸 staðall

🇰🇿 стандарт

🇬🇪 სტანდარტი

🇦🇿 standart

🇲🇽 estándar

Word Frequency Rank

At #564 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.

...
561 hard
562 extent
563 approach
564 standard
565 likely
566 society
567 outside
...