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Yardstick - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A yardstick is a measuring tool, typically one yard long, used to measure length. It can also refer to a standard or criterion for evaluating or comparing things.

yardstick

/ˈjɑrdˌstɪk/ /ˈjɑːdˌstɪk/

Definition:

A standard or criterion used for measurement, comparison, or judgment.

Synonyms:

benchmark, standard, measure, gauge, criterion

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

deviation, anomaly, exception

Common Collocations:

measure performance, set a yardstick, apply the yardstick, exceed the yardstick

Derivatives:

yardsticks (plural), yardsticked (rare past tense)

Usage Tips:

Use "yardstick" metaphorically for abstract comparisons like success or quality, not just physical measurements.

Common Phrases:

by any yardstick, the yardstick of success, measure against a yardstick

Etymology:

Originates from "yard" (unit of length) + "stick" (rod), first used metaphorically in the 19th century.

Examples:

  • 1. The new policy will be the yardstick for future reforms.
  • 2. Her achievements set a high yardstick for others to follow.
  • 3. We need a reliable yardstick to evaluate these proposals fairly.
  • 4. By any yardstick, his performance was outstanding last season.

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