B2noun formal 5K

Criterion

🇬🇧 UK /["/kraɪˈtɪəriən/","/kraɪˈtɪəriə/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/kraɪˈtɪriən/","/kraɪˈtɪriə/"]/

Meaning of Criterion

a standard or principle by which something is judged, or with the help of which a decision is made

In simple words: A standard or rule used to judge something.

Criterion in a sentence

• The main criterion for selecting candidates is their experience in the field.
• Each criterion must be met for the project to be approved.
• In this competition, the judges will evaluate based on a clear set of criteria.
• One important criterion for success is effective communication.
• There are several criteria to consider when purchasing a new car.
• The researchers established a rigorous criterion for their study.
• The environmental impact is a key criterion in our decision-making process.

How to use Criterion

Used primarily in academic or professional contexts to establish standards. Avoid in casual conversation unless discussing evaluations.

Grammar pattern

criterion + for + noun / criterion + that + clause

Memory hint

Sounds like 'cry-TEAR-on' — imagine a judge crying while evaluating performances.

Related words

Collocations with Criterion

• sole
• basic
• main
• range
• set
• fit
• fulfil/​fulfill
• meet
• according to a/​the criterion
• by a/​the criterion
• criterion for

Synonyms for Criterion

• standard
• benchmark
• principle
• gauge
• measure

Opposites of Criterion

• exception
• deviation

Common mistakes with Criterion

• Confused with 'criteria', which is the plural form.
• Used as a countable noun, e.g., saying 'a criterions' instead of 'a criterion'.
• Omitting the correct context, making sentences unclear.

Frequently asked questions about Criterion

What does Criterion mean?

A standard or rule used to judge something.

What is the definition of Criterion?

a standard or principle by which something is judged, or with the help of which a decision is made

How do you use Criterion in a sentence?

The main criterion for selecting candidates is their experience in the field.

Can you give another example of Criterion?

Each criterion must be met for the project to be approved.

What are synonyms for Criterion?

Common alternatives include standard, benchmark, principle, gauge, measure.

What is the opposite of Criterion?

Opposite meanings include exception, deviation.

What words go with Criterion?

It commonly pairs with sole, basic, main, range, set, fit, fulfil/​fulfill, meet, according to a/​the criterion, by a/​the criterion, criterion for.

What are common mistakes when using Criterion?

Confused with 'criteria', which is the plural form. Used as a countable noun, e.g., saying 'a criterions' instead of 'a criterion'. Omitting the correct context, making sentences unclear.

How do you pronounce Criterion?

US: /["/kraɪˈtɪriən/","/kraɪˈtɪriə/"]/, UK: /["/kraɪˈtɪəriən/","/kraɪˈtɪəriə/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Criterion formal or informal?

"Criterion" is formal, so it fits professional, business, or academic conversations.

When should I use Criterion?

Used primarily in academic or professional contexts to establish standards. Avoid in casual conversation unless discussing evaluations.

What CEFR level is Criterion?

"Criterion" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.