benchmarks
Pronunciation: [ˈbɛnʧˌmɑrks]
Context: “evaluation”
(noun) benchmarks are standards or points of reference that help us measure something. It's like a ruler we use to see how good or successful something is compared to others.
Example
The test results showed that our school is above the benchmarks set by the state.
Example
The project didn't meet the benchmarks, so we know we need to improve.
Example
What benchmarks do we use to measure student performance?
Context: “performance”
(noun) benchmarks are specific goals or targets we aim for to see how well we are doing. For example, a sports team might set points as benchmarks for winning games.
Example
The athlete set new benchmarks for herself in the marathon.
Example
The team's performance fell short of their benchmarks this season.
Example
What benchmarks have you set for your personal improvement?
Context: “comparison”
(verb) to benchmark means to compare something against these standards or points of reference. It's like checking to see how your report card stacks up against others in your class.
Example
We benchmarked our sales figures against last year's numbers.
Example
The company did not benchmark its product against its competitors, leading to missed opportunities.
Example
How do you plan to benchmark your project against similar ones?