a very high bar

USAGE SUMMARY

"a very high bar" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a difficult standard or expectation to meet. For example, "His teacher set a very high bar for excellence in her class."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"This is a very high bar.

The New York Times

"I don't think it's a very high bar," said Capt.

The New York Times

We saw that as a very high bar.

The New York Times - Health

I have a very high bar that I've raised.

The New York Times - Sports

Derek's trend line started at a very high bar.

The New York Times - Sports

It's not impossible, but Mr. Santorum has a very high bar to clear.

The New York Times

"Editing so many great photographers sets a very high bar for me personally," he said.

The New York Times

It makes for a very high bar when it comes to setting the record straight.

The New York Times

"This is a very high bar," said a source from one of the newspaper groups.

The Guardian

We have a very high bar in terms of selection of tenants.

The New York Times

"It is a very high bar he has set for his viewers to clear.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a very high bar", ensure the context clearly defines what specific criteria constitute this high standard. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity in your communication.

Common error

Avoid using "a very high bar" hyperbolically. Ensure that the situation genuinely warrants such a description, supported by specific examples or data. Otherwise, it may come across as exaggerated or insincere.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a very high bar" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as an object or complement within a sentence. It describes a standard, expectation, or goal that is difficult to achieve or surpass. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's generally used to denote something that represents a demanding level of performance or quality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a very high bar" is a common and grammatically correct English idiom used to describe a particularly challenging standard or expectation. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness for general usage. Predominantly found in News & Media contexts, it effectively conveys the difficulty and excellence associated with meeting or exceeding specific criteria. While appropriate for formal writing, consider context-specific synonyms for greater precision. To use the expression effectively, ensure clarity regarding the elements constituting this demanding level. Avoid using it hyperbolically and without justification. Alternatives include "a demanding standard" or "stringent requirement".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

high standards to meet

Rephrases the original by using "standards to meet" to convey a similar meaning, emphasizing the obligation to fulfill the requirements.

a demanding standard

Replaces "high bar" with a more direct synonym for difficulty, focusing on the demanding aspect of the requirement.

a stringent requirement

Emphasizes the strict and precise nature of the requirement, rather than just its height.

a tough benchmark

Uses "benchmark" to highlight that the standard is used for comparison and is difficult to achieve.

an ambitious goal

Shifts the focus to the aspiration and difficulty of achieving a particular objective.

a challenging criterion

Highlights the difficulty in meeting a specific criterion or condition.

exacting expectations

Replaces "bar" with "expectations", focusing on the high level of anticipation and demand.

a rigorous test

Focuses on the demanding and thorough nature of a test or evaluation.

a formidable obstacle

Changes the metaphor to an "obstacle", highlighting the difficulty in overcoming the challenge.

a steep climb

Uses the metaphor of climbing to represent the difficulty and effort required to achieve something.

FAQs

How can I use "a very high bar" in a sentence?

You can use "a very high bar" to describe demanding standards. For example, "The company set "a very high bar" for product quality" or "Meeting that deadline will be "a very high bar" to clear".

What's a good alternative to "a very high bar"?

Alternatives include "a demanding standard", "stringent requirements", or "a tough benchmark" depending on the specific context you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a very high bar" in formal writing?

Yes, "a very high bar" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing expectations, standards, or goals. However, consider whether a more precise or technical term would be more suitable for your specific audience.

What does it mean when someone says something sets "a very high bar"?

It means the thing being referenced is of exceptional quality or achievement. It serves as an outstanding example that will be difficult for others to surpass.