set the standard

USAGE SUMMARY

"set the standard" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to talk about creating a benchmark or a goal to reach. For example, "We need to set the standard for our team's performance so that we can reach our desired goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That set the standard.

Independent

He set the standard.

The New York Times

This stolid model set the standard.

The New York Times - Arts

The Clintons set the standard.

The New York Times

Lloyds must set the standard".

The Guardian - Business

My own playing set the standard.

The New York Times

"Judge Scheindlin has set the standard.

The New York Times

And luxury brands set the standard.

The New York Times - Magazine

He set the standard for me.

The Guardian - Books

He set the standard with impeccable writing.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He's going to set the standard for excellence.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "set the standard" to highlight actions or achievements that establish a high level of quality or performance in a particular field. For instance, "This research sets the standard for future studies in the area."

Common error

Avoid using "set the standard" in contexts where merely meeting existing requirements is described. This phrase should be reserved for instances where something exceptional or pioneering is achieved.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the standard" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It typically describes the act of establishing a criterion or benchmark against which others are measured. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

8%

Wiki

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "set the standard" is a versatile and widely used expression that conveys the act of establishing a benchmark or level of excellence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and common across diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Encyclopedias. While generally neutral in tone, its inherent meaning highlights innovation and achievement, making it particularly useful in professional settings. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects the creation of a new, high-quality benchmark rather than simply meeting existing requirements. Semantically related phrases include "establish a benchmark", "raise the bar", and "establish a precedent", offering alternative ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a benchmark

Focuses on the action of creating a point of reference for evaluation.

define the criteria

Emphasizes the act of specifying the necessary conditions or requirements.

raise the bar

Suggests improving an already existing standard to a higher level.

establish a precedent

Highlights setting an example that will be followed in the future.

break new ground

Indicates pioneering and creating something entirely new.

chart the course

Focuses on directing or leading the way forward.

forge a path

Stresses creating a new route or method.

set the pace

Emphasizes leading in terms of speed or progress.

lay the foundation

Highlights creating a base for future development.

lead the way

Focuses on taking the initiative and showing others how to proceed.

FAQs

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

You can use "set the standard" to describe actions or achievements that establish a high level of quality or performance. For example, "The company's innovative approach to customer service "set the standard" for the entire industry".

What are some alternatives to "set the standard"?

Alternatives to "set the standard" include phrases like "establish a benchmark", "raise the bar", or "establish a precedent", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "set the standard" in formal writing?

Yes, "set the standard" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in business, academic, and professional contexts where highlighting excellence and high achievement is important. Its usage is also common in "news and media".

What does it mean when someone says something "set the standard"?

When something "set the standard", it means that it established a level of quality, performance, or achievement that others are expected to meet or exceed. It implies that the thing in question has become a model or benchmark for others to follow.