Standard: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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