1/6 Easily confused words

 

Criteria vs. Criterion

Both words refer to standards or principles used for judgment or evaluation, but they differ in number (singular vs. plural).

1. Meaning and Difference

• Criterion (Singular) – a single standard or principle.
• Criteria (Plural) – multiple standards or principles.

2. Pronunciation

• Criterion: /kraɪˈtɪəriən/ (cry-TEER-ee-uhn)
• Criteria: /kraɪˈtɪəriə/ (cry-TEER-ee-uh)

3. Usage and Example

✅ Correct usage:

• The main criterion for admission is academic performance. (One standard)
• The criteria for selecting candidates include experience, education, and skills. (Multiple standards)

❌ Common mistake:

• The criteria is… ❌ (Incorrect because "criteria" is plural; use "criterion" for singular)
• The criterion are… ❌ (Incorrect because "criterion" is singular; use "criteria" for plural)

To avoid confusion, remember: criterion = one and criteria = more than one.