criterion
kry-TEER-ee-un
/kraɪˈtɪər.i.ən/
A principle or standard by which something may be judged or decided.
Singular noun (plural: criteria); represents one specific metric used in making a judgment.
The story behind the word. From Greek 'kriterion', meaning a tool or standard for judging. Derived from 'krinein' (to decide), which also gave English words like 'critic', 'crisis', and 'hypocrite'.
Word relationships
- standard: Standard is broader, while criterion is a specific test or rule used for making a decision.
- arbitrary choice: A decision made without explicit standards or rules.
Commonly confused with
- criteria: Criteria is the plural form of criterion.
Word family
- criteria (noun): Plural form of criterion.
Collocations
- key criterion
- selection criterion
- criterion-referenced
Example sentences
- "Clarity of argument was the primary criterion used to evaluate the essays." Academic Evaluation
- "Truth is the ultimate criterion by which scientific hypotheses must be judged." Philosophy
Memory hook
A CRITIC uses a CRITERION to render judgment. Single standard for judging.
When not to use
Do not use 'criteria' when referring to a single standard or metric.
Fun facts
- The plural 'criteria' is so frequently misused as a singular noun that dictionary usage notes specifically warn against it.
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