noun
Uncommon
criterion
kreye-TEER-ree-uhn
Criterion (noun) means a single standard or rule used to judge or decide something. Example: “Experience is one criterion the panel will consider.”
noun
1
A single standard or rule used to judge or decide something.
"Experience is one criterion the panel will consider."
"Price is the main criterion we use when choosing a supplier."
"Each candidate must meet every criterion in the job advert."
How to use criterion
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishOne standard used to make a judgment or decision.
Common mistake
The plural is "criteria," not "criterions."
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Plural
- criteria, criterions
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Experience is one _____ the panel will consider.
Etymology
From Greek kriterion, "a means of judging," from krites, "judge."
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for criterion
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for criterion →
Frequently asked questions
What does “criterion” mean?
The word “criterion” means a single standard or rule used to judge or decide something. In plain terms, one standard used to make a judgment or decision.
How do you pronounce “criterion”?
“Criterion” is pronounced kreye-TEER-ree-uhn (/kɹaɪˈtɪɹ.i.ən/ in IPA).
How do you use “criterion” in a sentence?
Here is “criterion” used in a sentence: “Experience is one criterion the panel will consider.”
What part of speech is “criterion”?
“Criterion” is a noun.
Where does the word “criterion” come from?
The word “criterion” comes from Greek. From Greek kriterion, "a means of judging," from krites, "judge.".
Is “criterion” a common word?
“Criterion” is an uncommon word in modern English.
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