Criteria – standards by which to judge something
(Pronounced cry-teer-re-uh)
Criteria are the standards by which someone or something is judged.
To remember the definition of the word criteria, use the following mnemonic:
She cried tears (criteria) because she couldn't reach her hat on the giant hat stand (standards).
Examples of criteria in a sentence
Talent is nowhere near the top of the list of criteria needed to become a pop star.
Products that meet certain environmental criteria may be awarded a green label.
The criteria for a great cup of tea are that it should be not too weak or strong, and not contain too much milk.
NOTE:
Strictly speaking, criteria is the plural form of the word, and criterion (cry-teer-ee-on) the singular. However, criteria is often used where only one standard or requirement is mentioned, for instance: "A great imagination is the criteria for a good writer". This could eventually become the norm.
