benchmark

Pronunciation: /ˈbɛntʃmɑːk/

noun

Definition of benchmark

A standard or point of reference against which things may be compared

Synonyms for benchmark

benchmark in a Sentence

  1. The study set a benchmark for future research in the field.

Why benchmark Matters for GRE & SAT

"benchmark" is a noun that means "A standard or point of reference against which things may be compared" closely related to words like "standard", "reference point", "criterion". As a word starting with B, it belongs to a cluster of GRE and SAT vocabulary that test-takers often encounter in Verbal Reasoning, Text Completion, and Reading Comprehension sections.

On the GRE, understanding "benchmark" helps you distinguish between closely related answer choices in Sentence Equivalence questions. On the SAT, recognizing this word in context strengthens your performance on Craft & Structure and Words in Context questions. Seeing how "benchmark" is used in sentences — like the examples above — builds the contextual understanding that standardized tests reward.

Study tip: Start with the definition and part of speech (noun). Then learn its 3 synonyms to build a word network. Finally, practice with spaced repetition to move "benchmark" into long-term memory.

How to Remember benchmark

One effective way to remember "benchmark" (noun) is to group it with similar words you already know: "standard" and "reference point" and "criterion". When you encounter "benchmark" on a test, these synonym connections help you quickly recall its meaning — "A standard or point of reference against which things may be...".

Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition to review "benchmark" at increasing intervals until it becomes automatic.

  • banal — unoriginal and dull; lacking creativity
  • banish — expel from a place, especially as punishment; get rid of
  • baroque — overly detailed or ornamental
  • barrage — an overwhelming concentration of something, typically hostile words
  • barren — incapable of producing offspring or fruit; unproductive

More Vocabulary Words Starting with B

  • banal — unoriginal and dull; lacking creativity
  • banal — unoriginal and dull; lacking creativity
  • banish — expel from a place, especially as punishment; get rid of
  • banish — expel from a place, especially as punishment; get rid of
  • baroque — overly detailed or ornamental
  • baroque — overly detailed or ornamental
  • barrage — an overwhelming concentration of something, typically hostile words
  • barrage — an overwhelming concentration of something, typically hostile words
  • barren — incapable of producing offspring or fruit; unproductive
  • barren — incapable of producing offspring or fruit; unproductive