sets a high bar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sets a high bar" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a certain standard or level of quality has been established that is difficult to surpass. Example: "The new policy sets a high bar for environmental sustainability that other companies will strive to meet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Leonard Lauder's recent bequest to the Metropolitan Museum of Art of 78 important Cubist works, estimated to be worth more than a billion dollars, sets a high bar for future Olympic collectors with philanthropic ambitions.

Huffington Post

Tang sets a high bar for himself.

The Washington Post

"The Federal Circuit sets a high bar".

The Guardian - Tech

The department sets a high bar for such a prosecution.

The New York Times

"Libby, Montana" sets a high bar for itself.

The New York Times - Arts

That certainly sets a high bar for me as the new director.

University of California, Berkeley

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

The inaugural convoy set a high bar.

The New York Times

Mr Ilves has set a high bar.

The Economist

We do set a high bar.

The New York Times

Apple has actually set a high bar for itself.

The New York Times - Tech

She set a high bar for her children.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sets a high bar", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is being challenged by this standard. Be specific about the area where the high standard is being set for better clarity.

Common error

While "sets a high bar" is a common expression, overuse can make writing sound uninspired. Consider using synonyms like "establishes a demanding standard" or "creates a challenging benchmark" to add variety and freshness to your prose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sets a high bar" primarily functions as a verbal phrase that describes the act of establishing a difficult standard or benchmark. As Ludwig AI correctly states, it indicates that a certain level of quality or performance has been established that is difficult to surpass. Examples from Ludwig show its use in various contexts, like technology, law, and art.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

22%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sets a high bar" is a widely used and grammatically sound expression, according to Ludwig AI. It signifies the establishment of a challenging standard or benchmark across diverse fields. The phrase finds frequent use in news and media, academia, and scientific contexts, denoting a neutral to professional register. To enhance writing, consider varying the phrasing using synonyms such as "establishes a demanding standard" or "creates a challenging benchmark". Remember to contextualize the phrase to ensure clarity regarding who or what is being challenged. Overuse should be avoided by incorporating the suggested alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establishes a demanding standard

Replaces "sets" with "establishes" and "high" with "demanding", focusing on the rigorous nature of the standard.

creates a challenging benchmark

Substitutes "sets" with "creates" and "high bar" with "challenging benchmark", emphasizing the difficulty and point of reference.

raises the standard of excellence

Uses "raises" instead of "sets" and highlights "excellence", indicating an increase in the quality required.

defines an ambitious goal

Replaces the entire phrase with a focus on the aspirational aspect of a goal that is difficult to achieve.

presents a formidable challenge

Shifts the focus from setting a standard to presenting a difficult task or obstacle.

introduces a rigorous requirement

Focuses on the strict and demanding nature of a new condition or specification.

demands exceptional performance

Highlights the level of achievement expected as a consequence of a high standard.

imposes stringent criteria

Emphasizes the strict and precise nature of the requirements being set.

sets an exacting precedent

Focuses on the role of the action as a model or example that is difficult to match due to its precision.

charts a difficult course

Changes the metaphor to a path or trajectory that is challenging to navigate.

FAQs

How can I use "sets a high bar" in a sentence?

You can use "sets a high bar" to describe something that establishes a difficult standard to meet. For example: "The company's innovative product development "sets a high bar" for its competitors."

What are some alternatives to "sets a high bar"?

Alternatives include phrases like "establishes a demanding standard", "creates a challenging benchmark", or "raises the standard of excellence", which offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis.

Is it appropriate to use "sets a high bar" in formal writing?

Yes, "sets a high bar" is acceptable in formal writing, particularly in contexts like business or academic reports. However, ensure the tone remains professional and that overuse is avoided.

What does it mean when something "sets a high bar"?

When something ""sets a high bar"", it establishes a standard of performance or quality that is difficult to surpass. It implies that future efforts or achievements will be judged against this new, elevated benchmark.