criterion
/kraɪˈtɪər.i.ən/A standard or rule that you use to judge or decide something. When you evaluate options or make a choice, a criterion is the specific condition that something must meet.
- Price is an important criterion when choosing a laptop.
- Academic grades are one criterion for university admission.
- What is the main criterion for selecting the winning design?
Adinary Nuance
Criterion is more precise and formal than its near-neighbors. Standard is broader — you "set a standard" for general quality, but you "judge against a criterion" in a specific evaluation. Benchmark focuses on a measurable reference point, often used in business or testing (e.g., a benchmark score). Yardstick is figurative and conversational — fine in speech, but avoid it in formal essays or IELTS writing. When you need an academic, formal tone — as in a research paper or official report — criterion (plural: criteria) is the clearest and most appropriate choice.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- Tiêu chí
- Spanish
- Criterio
- Chinese
- 标准
- Japanese
- 基準
- Korean
- 기준
Etymology
From Greek "kritērion" (a means of judging), derived from "krinein" (to separate, decide). Borrowed into English in the 17th century through Latin scholarly writing.
Common phrases
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- What is the plural of 'criterion'?
- The plural is 'criteria' — not 'criterions'. This is a very common mistake. You say 'one criterion' but 'several criteria'. In formal and academic writing, using 'criterias' is an error to avoid.
- What is the difference between 'criterion' and 'standard'?
- 'Standard' refers to a general level of quality (e.g., 'high standards'). 'Criterion' is a specific condition used to judge or choose something (e.g., 'the main criterion for selection'). In academic or IELTS writing, 'criterion' is more precise.
- Is 'criterion' a formal word?
- Yes. 'Criterion' is academic and formal. It is very common in IELTS essays, research papers, job descriptions, and official reports. In casual speech, people often say 'the key thing is…' instead.
- Can I use 'criteria' as a singular word?
- No — 'criteria' is always plural. Saying 'this criteria is important' is grammatically incorrect. Always use 'this criterion is important' for the singular, and 'these criteria are important' for the plural.