Revised as of
30 June 2023
Criteria has been used in speeches and writing as a singular noun, although it is actually a plural noun, i.e., referring to a number of standards whereas a criterion is but one point by which something is judged.
Yes, this means you aren’t likely to get in trouble with all but the sternest editor if you’re writing a fictional novel. If you’re writing non-fiction, then no holds are barred and expect to see red ink fly!
Word Confusions . . .
. . . started as my way of dealing with a professional frustration with properly spelled words that were out of context in manuscripts I was editing as well as books I was reviewing. It evolved into a sharing of information with y’all. I’m hoping you’ll share with us words that have been a bête noire for you from either end.
If you found this post on “Criteria versus Criterion” interesting, consider subscribing to KD Did It, if you’d like to track this post for future updates.
| Criteria | Criterion |
|---|---|
|
|
| Part of Grammar: | |
| Plural for criterion
Noun Plural: criteria |
Noun, singular
Plural: criteria |
| A principle or standard by which something may be judged or decided | |
| Examples: | |
| Further criteria needs to be considered.
The launch came too close to violating safety criteria. It met all our criteria: an interesting plot line, a range of characters, proofread text, and great tension and drama. A great meal has a number of criteria that must be met including complementary wines with each course, courses which lead smoothly into the next, imaginative and well-created dishes, and a lovely port to finish. |
An additional criterion needs to be considered.
The launch came too close to violating a particular safety criterion. It met our criterion: It was a great read! A great meal has but one criterion, that it taste great all together. |
| Derivatives: | |
| Adjective: criterial | |
| History of the Word: | |
| Early 17th century from the Greek kritērion indicating a means of judging, from kritēs. | |
C’mon, get it out of your system, bitch, whine, moan . . . which words are your pet peeves? Also, please note that I try to be as accurate as I can, but mistakes happen or I miss something. Email me if you find errors, so I can fix them . . . and we’ll all benefit!
Satisfy your curiosity about other Word Confusions on its homepage or more generally explore the index of self-editing posts. You may also want to explore Book Layout & Formatting Ideas, Formatting Tips, Grammar Explanations, Linguistics, Publishing Tips, the Properly Punctuated, Writing Ideas and Resources, and Working Your Website.
Resources for Criteria versus Criterion
Apple Dictionary.com
Pinterest Photo Credits
Checklist by 472301 is in the public domain, via Pixabay.
