a benchmark for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a benchmark for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a standard or point of reference against which things can be compared or assessed. Example: "The new software serves as a benchmark for evaluating the performance of similar applications in the market."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That was a benchmark for me.

The New York Times

He set a benchmark for the rest of us.

The New York Times

The programme's architects have set themselves a benchmark for success.

The Guardian

What is a benchmark for a good margin?

Harvard Business Review

It sets a benchmark for all broadcasters – public and commercial.

The Guardian - Opinion

These results may serve as a benchmark for future studies.

Composite Structures

These plants can serve as a benchmark for other plants.

Journal of Cleaner Production

Data included in this publication provide a historic record and a benchmark for current estimates.

Cornell University

Data included in this publication provides a historic record and a benchmark for current estimates.

Cornell University

Data included in this publication provide an historic record and a benchmark for current estimates.

Cornell University

Her name was a benchmark for quality, but she was initially a reluctant actor.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a benchmark for", ensure you clearly define what is being measured or compared against the benchmark to provide context and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a benchmark for" without specifying the context. Saying something 'sets a benchmark' is vague if you don't clarify what aspect is being measured or compared. Be specific to ensure clear communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a benchmark for" functions as a noun phrase, establishing a standard or point of reference. Ludwig highlights its use in setting criteria, measuring progress, or evaluating performance across various domains. It commonly precedes a noun or noun phrase specifying what is being measured or compared.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Science

26%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a benchmark for" is a widely used phrase that serves to establish a standard or point of reference for comparison and evaluation. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in News & Media, Science, and Academic sources. When using this phrase, clarity is key; ensure you specify what is being measured or compared against the benchmark. Alternatives include "a standard for" and "a point of reference for". By understanding its function and context, you can effectively incorporate "a benchmark for" into your writing to provide clear and objective assessments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A standard for

Replaces 'benchmark' with 'standard', emphasizing a recognized level of quality or attainment.

A point of reference for

Substitutes 'benchmark' with 'point of reference', highlighting its role as a comparative base.

A criterion for

Replaces 'benchmark' with 'criterion', focusing on its function as a decisive factor or measure.

A yardstick for

Uses 'yardstick' instead of 'benchmark', stressing its role as a measure against which something is judged.

A touchstone for

Employs 'touchstone' in place of 'benchmark', highlighting its role as a test of quality or genuineness.

A gauge for

Swaps 'benchmark' with 'gauge', underscoring its function in assessing or measuring something.

A model for

Replaces 'benchmark' with 'model', emphasizing its role as an example for imitation or emulation.

A standard against which to measure

This alternative provides a more verbose phrasing, clarifying what the standard is used for.

An exemplar for

Uses 'exemplar' to indicate a highly representative example or model.

A guiding principle for

Highlights the role of the benchmark as a foundational rule or belief influencing actions or decisions.

FAQs

How can I use "a benchmark for" in a sentence?

Use "a benchmark for" to indicate a standard or point of reference against which something is measured or evaluated. For example, "This study provides "a benchmark for future" research".

What is a good substitute for "a benchmark for"?

Alternatives to "a benchmark for" include "a standard for", "a point of reference for", or "a criterion for", depending on the context.

How does "a benchmark for" differ from "a goal for"?

"A benchmark for" is a standard for comparison, while "a goal for" is an objective to be achieved. A benchmark is a reference point; a goal is a target.

When is it appropriate to use "a benchmark for" instead of "a milestone for"?

"A benchmark for" is used to establish a comparative standard, whereas "a milestone for" indicates a significant achievement or progress marker. Use "a benchmark" when evaluating against a standard and "a milestone" when denoting progress.