set the standards

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "set the standards" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to setting expectations or goals for something. For example, "The school's principal announced a new plan to set the standards for student behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Ladies and gentlemen, F.A.A. set the standards.

The New York Times

"Wal-Mart's the goliath; they set the standards," he replied.

The New York Times

"They're trying to set the standards with him".

The New York Times - Sports

"Their responsibility is to set the standards in the organization.

The New York Times

They set the standards with the fielding and the bowling.

The New York Times - Sports

Brighton's first boutique hotel has set the standards high.

The Guardian - Travel

At the moment Australia definitely set the standards".

The Guardian - Sport

The main alternative here is to set the standards based on cost-benefit analysis.

University of California, Berkeley

"If you can set the standards, everyone looks to it," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

It is we who shall set the standards in our congregations.

The New York Times

Now with England, rather than protect Root, they are allowing him to set the standards.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "set the standards", ensure you clarify what standards are being set and how they will be measured. Providing context enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "set the standards" without defining specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals. Otherwise, the phrase becomes meaningless.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "set the standards" functions as a verb phrase that indicates the act of establishing a benchmark or level of quality, performance, or expectation. This phrase is commonly used to describe actions that define criteria against which others are measured.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

9%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "set the standards" is a versatile and frequently used expression for establishing benchmarks across various fields. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability. Its usage spans from news and media to scientific and formal business contexts. Remember to use this phrase with clear and measurable goals to avoid vagueness. By understanding its function, purpose, and common usage, you can effectively incorporate "set the standards" in your writing to convey authority and direction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Establish the benchmarks

Focuses on creating specific points of reference for evaluation.

Define the criteria

Emphasizes the act of specifying rules or principles for judgment.

Lay down the guidelines

Highlights providing a framework or set of recommendations.

Set the bar

A more concise and idiomatic way of expressing establishing a level of expectation.

Determine the specifications

Focuses on precise technical requirements or details.

Formulate the regulations

Refers to creating formal rules or laws.

Establish the norms

Emphasizes creating accepted behaviors or practices.

Dictate the terms

Suggests imposing conditions or stipulations.

Forge the model

Highlights creating an example to emulate.

Pave the way

Suggests creating the conditions for future success or achievements.

FAQs

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

You can use "set the standards" to describe establishing a benchmark or level of quality, performance, or expectation. For example, "The company aims to "set the standards" for customer service in the industry".

What are some alternatives to "set the standards"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "establish the benchmarks", "define the criteria", or "lay down the guidelines".

What does it mean to "set the bar"?

To "set the bar" is an idiomatic expression that means to establish a level of quality or performance that others are expected to achieve. It is similar in meaning to "set the standards".

Which is correct, "set the standards" or "raise the standards"?

Both phrases are correct, but they have different meanings. "Set the standards" means to establish the initial level, while "raise the standards" means to increase the existing level.