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Word

benchmark

noun C1
/ˈbɛn(t)ʃmɑːk/

Meanings

noun

a standard or reference point used to measure, compare, or judge performance or quality

benchmark: a standard or reference point used to measure, compare, or judge performance or quality
noun

a test that measures how fast or efficient a computer system or piece of software performs

benchmark: a test that measures how fast or efficient a computer system or piece of software performs
noun

a physical marker used in surveying to indicate a known position and elevation

benchmark: a physical marker used in surveying to indicate a known position and elevation

Definition

A benchmark is a standard or point of reference used to measure and compare performance or quality.

A benchmark is something you compare against to judge how well something is doing. It can be a target level, an example of best practice, or a widely accepted standard. People use benchmarks to track progress, set goals, and evaluate results across time or between competitors.

Examples

  • The team treated last year’s customer satisfaction score as a benchmark for the new service rollout.
  • I used the company’s internal benchmark to check whether my report met the expected standard.
  • She set a benchmark for response times that forced the whole department to rethink its workflow.
  • They ran a benchmark on the new laptop to see how it handled heavy video editing projects.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse benchmark with goal and say it is the target itself, but it is mainly the standard used for comparison.

More at C1 level

More nouns