Plural of Criterion Explained: Grammar Tips for Academic Writing
The plural of criterion is one of those grammar rules that can easily trip up even advanced English learners and academic writers. While “criterion” may sound formal or technical, its correct plural form—criteria—has specific use cases, especially in scholarly and professional contexts. This guide will break down everything you need to know about the term, when to use each version, and how to avoid common mistakes.
What Is the Singular and Plural of Criterion?
Example:
- Singular: The criterion for entry is a minimum GPA of 3.5.
- Plural: The criteria for selection include GPA, extracurriculars, and leadership skills.
Why the Plural of Criterion Confuses Many Writers
The plural of criterion often causes confusion because many people assume that adding “s” or “es” is the rule for pluralization in English. However, “criterion” is of Greek origin, and like many Greek words, it follows a different pluralization pattern.
Other examples of Greek-origin words include:
- Phenomenon → Phenomena
- Thesis → Theses
- Analysis → Analyses
So, just like “phenomenon” becomes “phenomena,” the plural of criterion becomes “criteria.”
The Importance of Using the Correct Plural of Criterion in Academia
When writing academic papers, the correct usage of the plural of criterion demonstrates precision and mastery of formal English. If you’re submitting a thesis, journal article, or research proposal, using “criterions” instead of “criteria” will hurt your credibility and can negatively affect peer reviews.
Example in Academic Writing:
“The criteria used to evaluate qualitative research differ from those applied to quantitative methods.”
Plural of Criterion in Everyday English
The plural of criterion isn’t just important in academic circles—it also shows up in business, marketing, law, and even casual conversation. You may not even notice that you use “criteria” often because it’s more commonly spoken than the singular “criterion.”
Example in Business:
“The hiring criteria include experience, communication skills, and leadership potential.”
Common Mistakes with the Plural of Criterion
One major mistake writers make with the plural of criterion is using “criterias,” which is grammatically incorrect. “Criteria” is already plural; adding an “s” is redundant.
Mistake Examples:
- ❌ The criterias are not clear.
- ✅ The criteria are not clear.
Another error is using “criteria” when only one standard is being discussed.
Mistake Examples:
- ❌ The only criteria for selection is fluency in English.
- ✅ The only criterion for selection is fluency in English.
How to Remember the Plural of Criterion
To remember the plural of criterion, associate it with similar Greek-derived words:
| Singular | Plural |
| Criterion | Criteria |
| Phenomenon | Phenomena |
| Datum | Data |
| Thesis | Theses |
Creating mental associations can help you internalize these forms and use them correctly in writing.
When to Use Criterion vs. Criteria
Knowing when to use the singular or plural of criterion depends entirely on context. If you are discussing just one condition or standard, use criterion. If there are multiple, use criteria.
Singular Example:
“The main criterion for promotion is leadership.”
Plural Example:
“The criteria include leadership, teamwork, and technical skills.”
Are Criterions Ever Correct?
You might wonder whether “criterions” is an acceptable alternative plural of criterion, especially since many people say it or even write it informally. However, “criterions” is generally not considered standard English and is rarely used in formal writing.
In modern English, the only accepted plural of criterion is criteria.
Plural of Criterion in Different Fields
The plural of criterion appears in multiple disciplines, each with slight differences in application. Here are a few examples:
In Education:
“The grading criteria include test performance, attendance, and participation.”
In Science:
“The criteria for chemical purity are outlined in the journal article.”
In Law:
“The judge reviewed the criteria for admissible evidence.”
In Art & Design:
“The design criteria were based on aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.”
Using the correct form shows you understand both the language and the subject matter.
Style Guide Recommendations for the Plural of Criterion
Many academic and publishing style guides—such as APA, MLA, and Chicago—explicitly support using criteria as the plural of criterion. They advise against colloquial variations like criterions or treating criteria as singular.
Quick rule:
- Use criterion with is
- Use criteria with are
Fun Mnemonics to Master the Plural of Criterion
Let’s make remembering the plural of criterion more fun with this simple mnemonic:
“Criteria are many – the ‘a’ at the end stands for ‘all.'”
“Criterion is one – the ‘on’ makes it ‘only one.'”
Repeat this to yourself a few times and it’ll become second nature.
Plural of Criterion: What Grammar Experts Say
Grammar experts and linguists unanimously agree on the plural of criterion being criteria. In fact, the Oxford English Dictionary lists “criteria” as the only standard plural form. Merriam-Webster and Cambridge Dictionary also support this usage.
Grammar Pro Tip:
Avoid using “criteria is” in your writing. It’s a common mistake even in business settings. Always say “criteria are.”
Quiz Yourself on the Plural of Criterion
Let’s test your understanding of the plural of criterion with a quick quiz.
Question 1:
Which of the following is correct?
A) The criterias are unclear.
B) The criterion are unclear.
C) The criteria are unclear.
Correct Answer: C
Question 2:
Fill in the blank: The main ______ for success is dedication.
A) criteria
B) criterion
C) criterions
Correct Answer: B
Summary Table: Singular vs. Plural
| Context | Correct Usage |
| One standard or condition | criterion |
| Multiple standards or rules | criteria |
| Informal mistake | ❌ criterions or criterias |
| Formal writing (academic) | ✅ criteria as the plural of criterion |
Final Thoughts on the Plural of Criterion
Learning the plural of criterion is more than just memorizing a grammar rule—it’s about becoming a more confident, accurate writer. Whether you’re preparing an academic paper, crafting professional emails, or simply improving your English skills, using the correct plural form makes a strong impression. “Criterion” is singular, “criteria” is plural, and “criterions” should be left behind.
Next time you’re writing and tempted to use “criterias” or “criterions,” remember this guide and stay grammatically sharp!
