What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
benchmark
Example
The company set a benchmark for customer satisfaction by achieving a 95% approval rating. [benchmark: noun]
Example
We need to benchmark our sales performance against industry standards to see how we are doing. [benchmark: verb]
criterion
Example
One of the criteria for admission to the university is a high GPA. [criteria: plural noun]
Example
The main criterion for selecting a candidate is their relevant work experience. [criterion: singular noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Benchmark is more commonly used than criterion in everyday language, especially in professional or technical contexts. Benchmark is a versatile term that can be applied to various fields, while criterion is more specific and commonly used in academic or decision-making contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between benchmark and criterion?
Both benchmark and criterion can be used in formal contexts, but criterion may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with academic or research settings.
