set the benchmark

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set the benchmark" is correct and usable in written English.
It is commonly used as a metaphor to mean setting a standard or goal. For example, you could say "This project will set the benchmark for future projects in this field."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The episode between us set the benchmark.

The Guardian - Sport

The deal set the benchmark for regional newspaper prices.

The Guardian

'It's always been a great test because they set the benchmark - they do really.

The Guardian - Sport

Singapore Airlines has long set the benchmark for marketing such attentiveness.

The New York Times

Traders seeking favorable rates received a welcome reception from bank employees who set the benchmark.

The New York Times

Wal-Mart had set the benchmark for low-cost retail labour practices.

Harvard Business Review

"It's just my nature to set the benchmark high," he explained.

The New York Times

But the central bank continues to set the benchmark for each day's trading of the renminbi.

The New York Times

"We set the benchmark last year, and now we have something to strive for," center Dusty Zeigler said.

The New York Times - Sports

We can set the benchmark for dedication and work ethic, but it is up to them to reach it.

The Guardian - Sport

("It's just my nature, to set the benchmark high," Anderson told the New York Times two years ago).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set the benchmark" when you want to emphasize establishing a recognized and respected standard of excellence.

Common error

Avoid using "set the benchmark" in situations where a standard is not truly being established or where the context is trivial. The phrase is most effective when highlighting significant achievements or innovations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the benchmark" functions as a verb phrase that signifies the act of establishing a standard for comparison or evaluation. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is correct and usable, often employed to describe the act of creating a reference point for others to follow.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Sport

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Science

3%

Lifestyle

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set the benchmark" is a widely used and grammatically sound expression that signifies establishing a standard of excellence or a point of reference, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in news, sports, and business contexts, it conveys the act of creating a model for others to follow. While versatile, it's best suited for situations where a significant standard is genuinely being established. To enhance writing, consider related phrases like "establish the standard" or "raise the bar" for variety. Ludwig's analysis reveals that "set the benchmark" is a valuable phrase for emphasizing achievements and innovations in a variety of professional and formal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

set the gold standard

Implies establishing the highest possible level of quality or performance.

establish the standard

Focuses on the act of creating a standard rather than implying a pre-existing one.

define the criteria

Emphasizes the creation of specific criteria for evaluation.

raise the bar

Implies increasing an existing standard to a higher level.

establish a precedent

Highlights setting an example for future actions or decisions.

set a high standard

Emphasizes the level of excellence being established.

forge a new path

Suggests creating an entirely new approach or method, setting a benchmark in innovation.

create a template

Focuses on creating a reusable model for others to follow.

break new ground

Suggests pioneering work that establishes a new level of achievement.

lay the foundation

Emphasizes providing a base for future progress or achievements.

FAQs

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

You can use "set the benchmark" to describe something that establishes a new standard of quality or performance. For example, "This new technology will "set the benchmark" for future innovations in the industry."

What are some alternatives to "set the benchmark"?

Alternatives to "set the benchmark" include "establish the standard", "define the criteria", or "raise the bar". The best choice depends on the specific context.

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

While both phrases are understandable, "set the benchmark" is generally preferred because it implies establishing a definitive, recognized standard. "Set a benchmark" might suggest setting any standard, without the same level of significance.

What does it mean to "set the gold standard"?

To "set the gold standard" is to "set the benchmark" at the highest possible level, implying unparalleled quality and excellence. It suggests that something is the best of its kind and serves as the ultimate example.