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el criterio means criterion / standard — a common term in Academic & Exam Prep. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: September 4, 2025

🧠 Academic & Exam Prep

el criterio

noun • /[el kree-TEH-ryoh]/

criterion / standard

Example:

Se utilizó un criterio riguroso de selección.

A rigorous selection criterion was used.

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🧠 What does el criterio mean?

El criterio (plural: los criterios) translates to "criterion" or "standard" in English. It refers to a principle or standard by which something may be judged or decided. It represents the benchmark against which you measure or evaluate something. Think of it as the rule or guideline you use to make a judgment or form an opinion. It can apply to academic assessments, professional evaluations, personal decisions, and much more.

📚 Extra examples

  • El principal criterio para la selección fue la experiencia.
    The main criterion for selection was experience.
  • Los criterios de evaluación incluyen la originalidad y la claridad.
    The evaluation criteria include originality and clarity.
  • Debes aplicar los criterios de admisión para determinar la elegibilidad.
    You must apply the admission criteria to determine eligibility.
  • Según mis criterios, este restaurante es el mejor de la ciudad.
    According to my criteria, this restaurant is the best in the city.
  • Es importante establecer criterios claros desde el principio.
    It's important to establish clear criteria from the beginning.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'criterion / standard' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'criterion' or 'standard' in Spanish is 'el criterio' (masculine singular) or 'los criterios' (masculine plural).
How do you pronounce 'el criterio' in Spanish?
It's pronounced roughly as 'el kree-TEH-ree-o'. The emphasis is on the 'TEH' syllable.
How do you use 'el criterio' in a sentence?
Here are some examples: 'El criterio principal es la calidad' (The main criterion is quality), '¿Cuáles son los criterios de selección?' (What are the selection criteria?), and 'Cumple con todos los criterios' (It meets all the criteria).
What is the English translation of 'el criterio'?
The English translation of 'el criterio' is 'criterion' or 'standard'.
Does 'el criterio' change for gender or number?
Yes, 'criterio' is a masculine noun. The singular is 'el criterio' and the plural is 'los criterios'.
Is 'el criterio' common in everyday Spanish?
While more common in formal or academic settings, 'el criterio' can also be used in everyday conversations, especially when discussing evaluations or decisions.
Does 'el criterio' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'el criterio' doesn't have any slang or double meanings. Its meaning is generally straightforward.
Is 'el criterio' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the meaning and usage of 'el criterio' are consistent across Spain and Latin America.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "el criterio"

Synonyms: la norma, el estándar, el parámetro, la regla

💡 Did You Know?

While "criterio" focuses on the standard itself, the related word "juicio" (judgment) refers to the act of applying criteria to form an opinion.

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