Cool MateCriterion vs Parameter
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Criterion
FormalTop 5,000 (fairly common)B2noun
Parameter
FormalTop 5,000 (fairly common)C1noun
| Criterion | Parameter | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 /["/kraɪˈtɪəriən/","/kraɪˈtɪəriə/"]/🇺🇸 /["/kraɪˈtɪriən/","/kraɪˈtɪriə/"]/ | 🇬🇧 /["/pəˈræmɪtə(r)/"]/🇺🇸 /["/pəˈræmɪtər/"]/ |
| Meaning | A standard or rule used to judge something. | A factor or limit that helps define a situation or condition. |
| Example | The main criterion for selecting candidates is their experience in the field. | to **set/define the parameters** |
| Register | Formal | Formal |
| How common | Top 5,000 (fairly common) | Top 5,000 (fairly common) |
| CEFR level | B2 | C1 |
| Part of speech | noun | noun |
| Collocations | sole, basic, main, range, set, fit, fulfil/fulfill, meet, according to a/the criterion, by a/the criterion, criterion for | set a parameter, adjust a parameter, define a parameter |
| Antonyms | exception, deviation | constant, fixed |
| Common mistakes | 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. | Confused with 'perimeter'., Using 'parameter' as a countable noun when it should be uncountable., Misplacing or misusing in sentences, such as 'set the parameter for'. |
| Usage notes | Used primarily in academic or professional contexts to establish standards. Avoid in casual conversation unless discussing evaluations. | Commonly used in scientific, technical, and academic contexts. Avoid using in casual conversations as it may sound out of place. |
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Frequently asked questions: Criterion vs Parameter
What's the difference between Criterion and Parameter?
Criterion: A standard or rule used to judge something. Parameter: A factor or limit that helps define a situation or condition.
Which is more advanced: Criterion and Parameter?
Parameter is the highest level, at C1, on the CEFR scale.
Are Criterion and Parameter the same CEFR level?
Criterion: B2, Parameter: C1 on the CEFR scale.
What part of speech are Criterion and Parameter?
Criterion: noun, Parameter: noun.
Can you show an example of each?
Criterion: The main criterion for selecting candidates is their experience in the field. Parameter: to **set/define the parameters**
Can I use Criterion and Parameter interchangeably?
Not always. Criterion and Parameter are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.