set a new benchmark for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set a new benchmark for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a standard or level of quality that has been established, often in a competitive context. Example: "The company's innovative product has set a new benchmark for efficiency in the industry."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

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

The Economist

"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

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

The Guardian - Tech

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

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

But donations on this scale are rare in New Zealand education and Mr Glenn's gift sets a new benchmark for this country". The dean of the business school, Barry Spicer, described Mr Glenn as an "inspiration to young entrepreneurs".

The Guardian

The report Stern delivered, at six hundred pages, sets a new benchmark for policy discussion.

The New Yorker

Bolton now sets a new benchmark for markets, according to Malcolm Veigas, policy officer for the National Association of British Market Authorities.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Their 2004 report on nanotechnologies covered a range of opportunities and uncertainties, setting a new benchmark for thoughtful technology assessment.

The Guardian

Incorporating decades of research by the foremost authority on Crane's work, Stephen Crane: A Life of Fire sets a new benchmark for biographers.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set a new benchmark for", ensure that you can provide concrete examples or metrics that demonstrate how the new benchmark surpasses previous levels.

Common error

Avoid using "set a new benchmark for" if the improvement is marginal or subjective. The phrase implies a significant and measurable advancement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set a new benchmark for" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of establishing a new standard of excellence or a point of reference against which future performance or achievements can be measured. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Academia

9%

Wiki

5%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "set a new benchmark for" is a widely recognized and grammatically sound expression used to denote the establishment of a new standard of excellence. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts. Its frequency and usage across diverse fields, including news, science, and business, underscore its versatility and importance in contemporary communication. When employing this phrase, ensure that the improvements are measurable and significant to avoid overstatement. Consider alternatives like ""set a new standard for"" or ""raise the bar for"" to tailor your message to the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set a new standard for

Uses "standard" instead of "benchmark", implying a defined level of quality.

create a gold standard for

Highlights creating an aspirational target that is above any other existing.

raise the bar for

Focuses on increasing difficulty or quality expectations rather than creating a new standard.

redefine the standards for

Emphasizes changing existing standards rather than just setting a new high point.

establish a precedent for

Highlights the creation of an example for future actions or decisions.

break new ground in

Focuses on innovation and pioneering work, not necessarily exceeding existing benchmarks.

surpass existing expectations for

Highlights exceeding what is anticipated, rather than creating a repeatable measure.

revolutionize the approach to

Implies a complete change in methodology, not just improving on existing metrics.

transform the landscape of

Focuses on a broad impact and change to the environment, beyond just a single benchmark.

pioneer a new era of

Emphasizes the start of a new period, often with significant changes.

FAQs

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

You can use "set a new benchmark for" to describe an achievement that establishes a new standard of excellence. For example: "The company's innovative product has "set a new benchmark for" efficiency in the industry."

What's a good alternative to "set a new benchmark for"?

Alternatives include "set a new standard for", "raise the bar for", or "establish a precedent for". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "set a new benchmark" or "raise the bar"?

Both phrases suggest improvement, but ""set a new benchmark for"" implies a measurable standard has been established, while ""raise the bar for"" simply means expectations have increased.

Can "set a new benchmark for" be used in a negative context?

While typically used positively, ""set a new benchmark for"" can be used sarcastically to highlight a particularly poor performance. Example: "His latest blunder "set a new benchmark for" incompetence."