What is criterion? Pronunciation and usage in English

criterion means . Learn how to pronounce and use criterion through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of criterion

criterionnoun

/krʌɪˈtɪərɪən/
Definition & pronunciation of criterion

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "criterion." It's a tricky one because it's not super common! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • ˈkrɪ.tē.ri.ən

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. ˈkrɪ - This sounds like "kree." The 'i' is a short "i" sound, like in "kit."

  2. tē - This sounds like "teh." It's a short "e" sound, like in "ten."

  3. ri - This sounds like "ree." Another short "i" sound.

  4. ən - This sounds like "un." It's a very short, unstressed "u" sound.

Putting it all together, it flows like: "KREE-teh-REE-un."

Here are some helpful tips:

  • Stress: The emphasis (stress) is on the first syllable: ˈkrɪ.
  • "C" sound: The "c" is pronounced as a "k" sound, not a "s" sound as it sometimes is in other words.
  • Don’t over-elongate: Each syllable should be pronounced clearly but relatively quickly.

Resources to listen to:

Would you like me to:

  • Pronounce it slowly again?
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Usage and examples with the word criterion in English

Let's break down how to use the word "criterion" correctly in English. It's a more formal word, so it's important to understand its nuances.

1. What is a Criterion?

At its core, a criterion is a principle or standard by which something is judged or decided. It’s a rule, measure, or standard used to evaluate something. Think of it as a yardstick.

2. How to Use It – Different Types of Sentences

Here's how you can incorporate "criterion" into sentences, with examples:

  • As a Noun (The most common usage):

    • “The criterion for success in this project is meeting the deadline and exceeding the quality standards.” (Here, it's the standard of success.)
    • “The committee used several criteria to select the candidate – experience, skills, and personality.” (Criteria are the qualities they considered.)
    • “Fairness is a key criterion in our hiring process.” (Fairness is the standard being used.)
    • “Academic performance is a significant criterion for college admission.” (Academic performance is the measure used.)

  • With 'for': (This is very common)

    • "The criterion for acceptance is a minimum GPA of 3.5." (Focuses on what it takes to be accepted)
    • "The criteria for the award included innovation and impact." (Lists the factors considered)

  • In Phrases:

    • "Meeting the criteria..." (e.g., "Meeting the criteria for the scholarship was challenging.")
    • "Based on the criteria..." (e.g., “Based on the criteria outlined in the proposal, we decided to move forward with the project.”)

3. Distinguishing “Criterion” from “Criteria”

  • Criterion (singular) refers to one standard or rule.

  • Criteria (plural) refers to multiple standards or rules.

    • Example: “The criteria for judging the competition were originality, technical skill, and presentation.” (Multiple standards)
    • Example: “A key criterion for this research was the use of reliable data.” (One specific standard)

4. Synonyms (Words with similar meanings)

Knowing synonyms can help you vary your language and choose the best word for the context:

  • Standard
  • Measure
  • Rule
  • Principle
  • Test
  • Qualification
  • Benchmark

5. Tone & Formality

“Criterion” is generally a more formal word. You wouldn't typically use it in casual conversation. It’s best suited for academic writing, professional reports, or situations where precision is important.

Example illustrating the difference in tone:

  • Informal: “We’ll pick the best one based on how good it looks.”
  • Formal: “We will select the preferred option based on the established criteria.”

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking of using "criterion" in? (e.g., academic essay, business report, general conversation)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're trying to construct that includes "criterion"?

Synonyms for the word criterion

Practice with vocabulary criterion

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The primary ______________ for evaluating the new software's effectiveness was its speed.
  2. Achieving ISO certification sets a high ______________ for quality management systems across the industry.
  3. Meeting the strict environmental ______________ was crucial for obtaining project approval.
  4. A strong background in statistics is a ______________ for admission to the advanced data science program.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  • Select all options that correctly complete the sentence.

  1. To qualify for the promotion, an employee must satisfy every specified ______________. A. criterion B. standard C. prerequisite D. guideline

  2. The most important ______________ for a successful marketing campaign is a clear understanding of the target audience. A. criterion B. principle C. directive D. rule

  3. The new company ______________ outlines how employees should manage sensitive client data. A. protocol B. standard C. assessment D. evaluation

  4. Which of the following can be used as a basis for objective evaluation in a product review? A. criterion B. metric C. guideline D. benchmark

  5. Before initiating the emergency response, all safety ______________ must be strictly observed. A. guidelines B. regulations C. prerequisites D. assessments

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The main standard by which we will judge the product is its user-friendliness.
  2. Eligibility for the program depends on several key conditions, including academic performance and leadership potential.
  3. The department follows strict rules regarding data privacy.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. The primary criterion for evaluating the new software's effectiveness was its speed.
  2. Achieving ISO certification sets a high benchmark for quality management systems across the industry.
  3. Meeting the strict environmental criteria was crucial for obtaining project approval.
  4. A strong background in statistics is a prerequisite for admission to the advanced data science program.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. A. criterion, B. standard, C. prerequisite
  2. A. criterion, B. principle
  3. A. protocol, B. standard
  4. A. criterion, B. metric, D. benchmark
  5. A. guidelines, B. regulations

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. User-friendliness will be the main criterion for judging the product.
  2. Academic performance and leadership potential are among the key criteria for program eligibility.
  3. The department adheres to strict protocols regarding data privacy.

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