below par

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "below par" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe something that is not up to standard or not as good as it should be. For example: "My performance in the race had been below par, so I was surprised to get the first prize."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Gasoline mileage was below par, as well.

The New York Times

Do you have silly excuses for a below par performance?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Gove's policy of closing schools with "below par" exam results is turning schools into exam factories.

The Guardian - Opinion

West Ham were below par.

The Guardian - Sport

Everyone knew we were below par.

Independent

Chelsea, meanwhile, is performing well below par.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

Money was wasted on below-par ideas.

The New York Times

On Saturday Wenger said the pitch was below-par.

Independent

Time will tell if their 255 is acceptable or indeed a below-par first-innings score.

The Guardian - Sport

"This report is clear, there are still too many children receiving a below-par education.

The Guardian

A well taken opening goal the only highlight for what was a below-par performance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "below par", ensure the context clearly defines what the expected standard or 'par' is. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "below par" without establishing a clear benchmark for comparison. Readers need to understand what the 'par' is to grasp the significance of the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "below par" functions primarily as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something is not up to the expected standard. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "below par" is a commonly used adjective phrase that signifies something is not meeting the expected standard or average. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase serves to convey a negative assessment. To ensure clarity, always establish a benchmark for comparison when using "below par". Consider synonyms like "substandard" or "underperforming" for more formal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

not up to scratch

An idiomatic expression meaning not good enough.

substandard

This term directly implies a failure to meet the required standard.

underperforming

Specifically describes a failure to perform as expected.

not measuring up

Implies a failure to meet expectations or requirements.

deficient

Highlights a lack or inadequacy in a specific area.

inferior

Indicates a lower quality compared to something else.

second-rate

Indicates something is not the best or of high quality.

lacking

Emphasizes the absence of a necessary quality or component.

poor

A general term for something of low quality.

weak

Suggests a lack of strength or effectiveness.

FAQs

How can I use "below par" in a sentence?

You can use "below par" to describe performances, scores, or conditions that are worse than expected. For example, "The team's performance was "below par" due to several injuries".

What's a formal alternative to "below par"?

In formal contexts, consider using "substandard", "deficient", or "underperforming" instead of "below par".

Is it correct to use "below par" to describe a person's health?

Yes, you can say someone is feeling "below par" to indicate they are unwell or not feeling their best. For example, "I'm feeling a bit "below par" today, so I'll stay home".

What is the difference between "below par" and "average"?

"Below par" indicates something is worse than the expected standard or average, while "average" simply means it meets the typical standard. Something that is "below par" is underperforming, while something that is average is performing as expected.