Synonyms of benchmark

benchmark

noun

ˈbench-ˌmärk 

as in standard

something set up as an example against which others of the same type are compared

this prize-winning biography will be the benchmark against which all others will be judged in future years

Synonyms & Similar Words

• standard
• criterion
• measure
• metric
• yardstick
• example
• touchstone
• barometer
• gold standard
• par
• grade
• rule
• instance
• bar
• mark
• norm
• average
• case
• pinnacle
• peak
• summit
• apex
• meridian
• zenith
• acme

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• deviation
• abnormality
• aberration

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of benchmark

Under the state’s pay schedule, with no county supplement, teachers would not reach that benchmark until their 25th year. —Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 7 Jan. 2026

Either way, the listings offer a better way to know how much a business is worth and offers a benchmark for comparison. —Tasmin Lockwood, CNBC, 6 Jan. 2026

Illinois should follow that lead rather than masking weak outcomes with lower benchmarks. —Bruce Rauner, Chicago Tribune, 6 Jan. 2026

So many memorable spots have closed, new favorites have opened, and others are approaching a notable benchmark. —Lennie Omalza, Louisville Courier Journal, 6 Jan. 2026