WordValebenchmark
a standard of comparison
a standard against which performance is measured
In more detail
1. (noun) a standard or point of reference against which something can be measured or compared
2. (noun) a mark on a surface showing a particular height or position, used as a reference point
Examples
- 1. The company uses last year's sales figures as a benchmark for measuring this year's performance.
- 2. The surveyor placed a benchmark on the building to mark the exact ground level.
How to use benchmark
Benchmark is used to refer to a standard of measurement or comparison, especially in business, performance evaluation, and technical contexts. It often implies an established or aspirational level against which progress or quality can be assessed. The term is slightly more formal and technical than casual alternatives like 'standard' or 'measure'.
Common phrases
- set a benchmark
- meet the benchmark
- exceed a benchmark
- benchmark against
- industry benchmark
- performance benchmark
Synonyms
standard · yardstick · reference point · measure · criterion
Word family
benchmark (verb) · benchmarking (noun)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use 'benchmark' as if it means 'the highest possible standard' when it is simply a reference point that may be average, typical, or aspirational depending on context.
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