measuring stick

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "measuring stick" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used metaphorically to refer to a standard or criterion for evaluating something. Example: "In assessing the success of the project, we used customer satisfaction as our measuring stick."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Its white tower was once our measuring stick -- each year we were several bricks taller.

The New York Times - Travel

Animals and children are the measuring stick of a person's character.

The New York Times

A calliper and graduated measuring stick were used to measure DBH and height, respectively.

Ecological Processes

Put away the measuring stick with the comparison metric.

Huffington Post

Use a measuring stick or measuring stick to measure the dowel rod from the marked point to the end previously inserted into the gun barrel.

WikiHow

Precise, if not an everyday measuring stick.

The New York Times

Then you find an appropriate measuring stick.

The New York Times

To me, that's a great measuring stick".

The New Yorker

The measuring stick is three years".

The New York Times

Woods will now be the measuring stick.

The New York Times - Sports

Hungary provided a good measuring stick.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "measuring stick" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes what is being evaluated and against what standard. For example: "Customer satisfaction is a key measuring stick for our success."

Common error

While "measuring stick" is acceptable, overuse in formal or academic writing can make your text sound less sophisticated. Consider using more formal alternatives like "benchmark" or "criterion" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "measuring stick" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used metaphorically. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It refers to a standard or criterion by which something is evaluated or compared, functioning similarly to a "benchmark" or "yardstick".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "measuring stick" is a grammatically sound and commonly used idiom, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It serves as a metaphorical standard for evaluation, frequently appearing in news and media contexts. While acceptable in general writing, formal settings may benefit from alternatives like "benchmark" or "criterion". Remember to use "measuring stick" when you want to clearly define the criteria for assessing something, but consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing to select the most appropriate vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

benchmark

A standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed.

yardstick

A standard used for comparison or evaluation.

criterion

A principle or standard by which something may be judged or decided.

standard

A level of quality or attainment.

gauge

An instrument or standard of measurement.

litmus test

A decisively indicative test.

touchstone

A standard or criterion by which something is judged or recognized.

barometer

Something that reflects changes in circumstances or opinions.

point of reference

A standard or basis for evaluation or comparison.

rule of thumb

A broadly accurate guide or principle, based on practice rather than theory.

FAQs

How can I use "measuring stick" in a sentence?

You can use "measuring stick" to describe a standard or method used to evaluate something. For example, "Profitability is a key "measuring stick" for business success".

What are some alternatives to "measuring stick"?

Some alternatives to "measuring stick" include "benchmark", "yardstick", and "criterion", depending on the context.

Is "measuring stick" an idiom?

Yes, "measuring stick" is an idiom that refers to a standard or criterion used for evaluation.

When is it appropriate to use "measuring stick" versus a more formal term?

"Measuring stick" is suitable for general and informal contexts. In formal or academic writing, consider using more precise and professional terms like "benchmark" or "criterion".