set a higher standard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set a higher standard" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to encourage someone to aim for a higher level of performance, or when you want to call on others to pursue a more ambitious goal. For example, you might say, "We need to set a higher standard for the quality of our products if we want to remain competitive in this industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

It was fuller and set a higher standard of impartiality.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He says politicians need to set a higher standard with their public interventions.

The Guardian

And they complained that the press set a higher standard for Mr. Gore's performance.

The New York Times

First, these organizations, if they are serious about providing their readers with accurate information, must set a higher standard.

The Guardian

But Judge Sauls brushed past that provision and arbitrarily set a higher standard for intervention, calling for a "reasonable probability" that the election results would be different.

The New York Times

She ought to forthrightly address the questions that have accumulated in recent days and make clear that she intends to set a higher standard for her service as a senator.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Several other dishes set a high standard.

The New York Times

We set a high standard.

The Guardian

"They set a high standard".

The New York Times

But Disney has set a high standard lately.

The Guardian - Film

Baker and Manuel have set a high standard for the two newcomers.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set a higher standard" when you want to express the need for improvement. Consider the context and ensure that raising the bar is realistic and achievable.

Common error

Avoid stating that you want to "set a higher standard" without providing specific details. Be clear about the criteria or benchmarks you intend to exceed. For example, instead of saying 'We need to set a higher standard', say 'We need to set a higher standard for customer service response times.'

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set a higher standard" functions as a directive or declaration to elevate performance or expectations. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, ranging from personal goals to organizational objectives. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set a higher standard" is a call to action for improvement, quality enhancement, or increased performance expectations. Grammatically sound and frequently used across diverse contexts, it resonates as a means to inspire or mandate progress, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly featured in news and media, with support in encyclopedic and scientific contexts, it underscores its significance in both professional and everyday discourse. The analysis of Ludwig examples showcases its adaptability, while linguistic dissection emphasizes its neutral-to-professional register, indicating suitability for many contexts. The phrase serves as a common approach towards improving performance, processes and quality in multiple contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

raise the bar

Focuses on increasing difficulty or expectations in a particular activity.

elevate the benchmark

Implies setting a new, higher point of reference for future evaluations.

refine the standard

Focuses on improving something to make it the purest.

improve the criteria

Highlights enhancing the rules or principles used for judgment or assessment.

exceed expectations

Focuses on surpassing anticipated performance.

enhance the norm

Suggests improving what is generally considered to be the typical or standard behavior.

surpass previous achievements

Indicates exceeding prior levels of success or accomplishment.

advance the level

Focuses on moving up to a more developed stage or degree of achievement.

reach for excellence

Suggests a strong pursuit of superior quality and performance.

promote better practices

Focuses on encouraging the adoption of more effective or ethical methods.

FAQs

How can I use "set a higher standard" in a sentence?

You can use "set a higher standard" to express the need for improvement. For example, you might say, "The company aims to "set a higher standard" for product quality to compete in the global market."

What are some alternatives to "set a higher standard"?

Some alternatives to "set a higher standard" include "raise the bar", "elevate the benchmark", or "improve the criteria". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "set a higher standard" or "raise the bar"?

Both "set a higher standard" and "raise the bar" are acceptable. "Set a higher standard" is more formal and direct, while "raise the bar" is more idiomatic and implies increasing difficulty or expectations.

What does it mean to "set a higher standard"?

To "set a higher standard" means to establish a new, more ambitious level of performance, quality, or expectation. It suggests aiming for improvement and exceeding current norms.