When it comes to evaluating something, it's essential to have a clear standard of judgment. This is the criteria or set of expectations that you use to assess the quality or worth of something. There are many synonyms and similar phrases that can be used to describe this standard of judgment, including benchmark, yardstick, criteria, gauge, measure, touchstone, litmus test, acid test, and plumb line. All these terms represent a common theme that indicates a critical assessment that is conducted to set a standard against which everything else is judged. Ultimately, having a strong standard of judgment enables us to make informed decisions and select higher-quality options in all aspects of life.