set a new benchmark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set a new benchmark" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to establish a new standard or record for others to follow or surpass. You can use "set a new benchmark" when talking about achieving a high level of achievement or success in a particular field or industry. Here is an example: "Apple's latest iPhone has set a new benchmark for smartphone technology with its innovative features and sleek design."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Human-rights groups predicted that it would set a "new benchmark".

The Economist

Hyperactive and loud, he has set a new benchmark for governing by Twitter.

The Economist

He said he hoped it would set a new benchmark for democracy in the internet era.

The Guardian - Tech

"They are trying to set a new benchmark - they can't hold that benchmark themselves.

The Guardian - Opinion

"They've set a new benchmark for other teams to follow," said Stajcic.

The Guardian - Sport

If we come back, we will set a new benchmark for what is sports ownership.

The New York Times

And his appearance at Coachella last year set a new benchmark for erratic behavior.

The New Yorker

The standards set a new benchmark and are a clear set of contractual guidelines that productions sign up to.

The Guardian - Opinion

Although they have set a new benchmark for expenditure, their readiness to win a major title is questionable.

The Guardian - Sport

Kenny set a new benchmark for the mockumentary, at least as far as locally produced comedies were concerned.

The Guardian - Film

Certainly, Bill Clinton's leavetaking from the White House set a new benchmark for bad judgment by a departing president.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set a new benchmark", clearly specify what area or aspect is being improved and how this new standard is being achieved.

Common error

Avoid using "set a new benchmark" as a vague claim. Always provide specific details about the achievement and its significance to prevent ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set a new benchmark" functions as a verbal phrase used to describe the act of establishing a new standard or level of performance. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase follows standard grammar rules and is widely used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set a new benchmark" is a commonly used and grammatically sound expression that signifies the establishment of a new standard of excellence or performance. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and frequently used in written English. It is most often found in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science contexts, indicating its broad applicability and acceptance. When using "set a new benchmark", it is important to provide specific context and details to avoid vagueness and ensure clarity. Alternatives such as "establish a new standard" or "raise the bar" can be used to convey similar meanings, depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a new standard

Focuses on the act of establishing a standard, without necessarily implying surpassing previous ones.

raise the bar

An idiomatic expression that emphasizes increasing the level of difficulty or expectation.

set a higher standard

Directly indicates that the new standard is superior to previous ones.

break new ground

Implies innovation and doing something that has not been done before.

pioneer a new level

Emphasizes being the first to achieve a certain level of performance or quality.

redefine excellence

Suggests a complete change in the understanding of what constitutes excellence.

set a precedent

Focuses on creating an example for future actions or decisions.

mark a turning point

Highlights a significant change or shift in direction.

take it to the next level

Informal expression for improving or advancing something considerably.

outdo oneself

Implies surpassing one's own previous achievements.

FAQs

How can I use "set a new benchmark" in a sentence?

Use "set a new benchmark" to describe establishing a new, high standard. For example, "This innovative technology has "set a new benchmark" for efficiency in the industry."

What can I say instead of "set a new benchmark"?

You can use alternatives like "establish a new standard", "raise the bar", or "set a higher standard" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "set a new benchmark" in formal writing?

Yes, "set a new benchmark" is suitable for formal writing, especially in business, scientific, or academic contexts where establishing new standards or achievements is being discussed.

What's the difference between ""set a new benchmark"" and "set a new record"?

"Set a new benchmark" refers to establishing a new standard of quality or performance that others can aspire to, while "set a new record" refers to achieving a new highest level in a measurable quantity (e.g. sales, speed, score).