Yardstick Meaning in English
word
Definition
A yardstick is something used for comparison to judge the size, quality, or success of something else. It can also refer to a measuring stick, typically three feet long, but is mostly used figuratively.
Usage & Nuances
Most often used metaphorically to talk about standards or ways of measuring success ('a yardstick for quality'). Rarely used literally. Common in formal and semi-formal writing. Can be replaced by 'standard' or 'benchmark' in many cases.
Example Sentences
The test was used as a yardstick to measure progress.
basic
There is no universal yardstick for beauty.
basic
We use customer satisfaction as the main yardstick.
basic
Money shouldn’t always be the yardstick of success.
natural
Is test score really the best yardstick for learning?
natural
We need a new yardstick for judging innovation in this field.
natural