Criterion

Definition

Criterion refers to a standard, rule, or principle on which a judgment or decision is based. It is often used in contexts where evaluation or assessment is required to determine quality, suitability, or validity.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kraɪˈtɪr.i.ən/
• Respelling: kry-TEER-ee-uhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kraɪˈtɪə.ri.ən/
• Respelling: kry-TEER-ee-uhn

Etymology

The word "criterion" originates from the Greek "kriterion," meaning "means of judging" or "standard," derived from "krinein," meaning "to judge" or "to decide." The term was adopted into Latin and later Middle French, before entering English in the 17th century.

Derivatives

• Criteria (plural noun)
• Criterion-referenced (adjective)
• Subcriterion (noun)
• Multi-criteria (adjective)
• Criterion-based (adjective)

Synonyms

• Standard
• Benchmark
• Measure

Antonyms

• Guess
• Conjecture
• None

Usage

The term "criterion" is frequently used to describe a standard by which something is evaluated, such as "Meeting the safety criterion is essential for product approval." It is especially common in fields like education, research, and quality assessment.

Related Terms

• Standard: A level of quality or attainment used as a measure.
• Benchmark: A point of reference for measuring or judging quality.
• Parameter: A rule or limit that controls or restricts actions.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A principle or standard by which something is judged: Refers to a basis for evaluation or decision-making.
  • Example: "Academic success is often a criterion for university admissions."
• A measure used to assess suitability, validity, or quality: Used in contexts where specific qualities are needed to meet a standard.
  • Example: "Environmental impact is a key criterion in sustainability studies."