standard of comparison

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "standard of comparison" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a benchmark or reference point against which other things are measured or evaluated. Example: "In evaluating the effectiveness of the new marketing strategy, we will use last year's sales figures as our standard of comparison."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mr. Sariman's standard of comparison is a common one.

The New York Times

In addition, it doesn't provide an external standard of comparison.

Harvard Business Review

One factor that may work in Mr. Gore's favor these days is the standard of comparison.

The New York Times

This provides a standard of comparison for other simulation programs.

Electrochimica Acta

The problem is that the better times seem better only when one has a standard of comparison.

The New York Times

However, if excellence for all is the aim, the true standard of comparison is not novices or even experienced teachers.

The Washington Post

That splendid volume sets a very high standard of comparison, but Mr. Chernow's book is excellent in its own right.

The New York Times - Books

And that may be the fairest standard of comparison between the Ninth and "The Rite".

The New York Times - Arts

But if one's standard of comparison is simply the number of buildings that bear the developer's name, Donald dominates the field.

The New Yorker

What do you have to say? MALCOLM GLADWELL: Well, if that's our standard of comparison, why do we still watch football?

The New Yorker

Either way, Mrs. Porter was the standard of comparison, and the idea turned out to be very vexing for a number of contemporary belles.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "standard of comparison", ensure the context clearly defines what is being compared and why that particular standard is relevant. This prevents ambiguity and strengthens the argument.

Common error

Avoid using "standard of comparison" without clearly defining what the standard is. For example, instead of saying "the product exceeded the standard of comparison", specify "the product exceeded last year's sales figures, which served as the standard of comparison".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "standard of comparison" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a preposition. As Ludwig indicates, it's grammatically correct and widely used. It identifies a benchmark against which other items or concepts are evaluated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

33%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "standard of comparison" is a commonly used and grammatically correct noun phrase that serves as a crucial element in analytical and comparative writing. As Ludwig confirms, its primary function is to establish a benchmark for evaluating the relative merit or quality of something. Predominantly found in science, news and media, and academic contexts, its usage conveys objectivity. To avoid ambiguity, remember to clearly define the standard being referenced, enhancing the precision and clarity of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

benchmark for comparison

Replaces "standard" with "benchmark", emphasizing a recognized point of reference.

reference standard

Inverts the original phrase, placing emphasis on the reference aspect.

point of reference

Focuses on the use of something as a reference for evaluation, without necessarily implying a strict standard.

basis for evaluation

Highlights the use of something as the foundation for assessing value or quality.

yardstick for measuring

Uses "yardstick" as a metaphor for a tool used to measure or assess something.

comparative baseline

Highlights the use of a baseline for comparing different elements or results.

criterion for assessment

Emphasizes the use of a specific requirement or principle for evaluating something.

frame of reference

Highlights the context or perspective used when making comparisons.

measuring stick

Similar to "yardstick", this phrase implies a tool used for gauging or evaluating.

touchstone

Implies a critical test or standard by which something is judged.

FAQs

How do you use "standard of comparison" in a sentence?

The phrase "standard of comparison" refers to a benchmark used to evaluate something else. For example: "We used the previous model's performance as our "standard of comparison" for the new design".

What's another way to say "standard of comparison"?

Alternatives for "standard of comparison" include "benchmark for comparison", "point of reference", or "basis for evaluation".

Is it correct to say "a standard of comparison" or "the standard of comparison"?

Both "a standard of comparison" and "the standard of comparison" are grammatically correct, but their usage depends on the context. Use "a standard of comparison" when introducing a general benchmark, and "the standard of comparison" when referring to a specific, previously mentioned benchmark.

What makes a good "standard of comparison"?

A good "standard of comparison" should be relevant, reliable, and clearly defined. It should accurately reflect the qualities being evaluated and provide a meaningful basis for comparison.