usual standard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "usual standard" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a typical or expected level of quality or performance in a given context. Example: "The product did not meet the usual standard we expect from this brand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Not our usual standard, but understandable.

The New York Times

But it was so disappointing, far below her usual standard.

The Guardian

That ain't near up to my usual standard".

The New Yorker

Contributors will be paid the usual standard professional rates.

The New York Times

That is the usual standard in civil suits.

The New York Times - Tech

Many kids find themselves interested in the usual standard activities like karate, soccer and baseball.

The New York Times

Both teams were keen, but nowhere near World Cup level, my usual standard for watching soccer.

The Economist

Literary languages tend to become somewhat removed from the usual standard colloquial.

Encyclopedia Britannica

David would never say what you'd written was rubbish, but that it wasn't up to your usual standard.

The Guardian - Money

But he's not been the same player this season and his kicking has been below its usual standard.

The Guardian - Sport

But the pacing wasn't up to his usual standard, and the funny bits were a bit crap.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When evaluating performance or quality, use "usual standard" to denote the generally accepted level against which something is being measured. This helps set clear expectations and provides a common frame of reference.

Common error

When using "usual standard", ensure the specific context is clear. Without context, the standard may be misinterpreted, leading to misunderstandings. Provide explicit details to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "usual standard" primarily functions as a noun phrase that describes a typical or expected level of quality, performance, or practice. Examples from Ludwig indicate it is used to set a reference point for comparison.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "usual standard" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe an expected level of quality or performance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions primarily as a noun phrase to establish a benchmark for evaluation. The phrase sees frequent use in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedia contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. While alternatives like ""typical standard"" and ""normal standard"" exist, "usual standard" remains a clear and effective way to set expectations and provide a common frame of reference.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

typical standard

Emphasizes conformity to a recognized type or pattern.

normal standard

Highlights that the standard is what is commonly expected or encountered.

customary standard

Focuses on the standard being established by long-standing practice.

ordinary standard

Suggests a standard that is neither exceptional nor inferior.

conventional standard

Stresses adherence to established practices and norms.

established norm

Highlights the widely accepted level of quality or performance.

accepted practice

Emphasizes that a practice has been generally agreed upon.

common benchmark

Highlights the point of reference used for comparison.

prevailing level

Focuses on the level that is currently dominant or widespread.

routine criteria

Emphasizes criteria that are regularly and consistently applied.

FAQs

How can I use "usual standard" in a sentence?

You can use "usual standard" to describe an expected level of performance or quality. For example, "The team's performance was below their "usual standard" this quarter."

What are some alternatives to "usual standard"?

Alternatives include "typical standard", "normal standard", or "customary standard", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "up to the usual standard"?

Yes, "up to the "usual standard"" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to indicate that something meets the expected level of quality or performance.

What's the difference between "usual standard" and "average standard"?

"Usual standard" refers to a typical or expected level, while "average standard" implies a calculated mean. The "usual standard" sets a benchmark, whereas the average is a statistical measure.