What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
norm
Example
It's important to follow the social norms of the country you're visiting. [norm: noun]
Example
The temperature this time of year is usually within the norm for this region. [norm: noun]
Example
It's not the norm to arrive late to meetings in this company. [norm: noun]
criterion
Example
One criterion for admission to this university is a high GPA. [criterion: noun]
Example
The success of the project will be evaluated based on several criteria, including cost and efficiency. [criteria: plural noun]
Example
The main criterion for selecting a candidate is their relevant experience. [criterion: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Norm is more commonly used than criterion in everyday language, especially in social or cultural contexts. Criterion is more commonly used in academic or professional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between norm and criterion?
Criterion is generally considered more formal than norm, and is often used in technical or specialized fields.
