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A singular blunder: why "a criteria" doesn't make the cut (hint: it's "criterion")
Reviewed and edited by 
Lloyd Cooper 07/10/2024, 18:59
Lloyd Cooper 07/10/2024, 18:59English.me team member
What kind of error is it?
It is a grammatical error, specifically a singular-plural mismatch.
Why do people make this mistake?
People often make this error because "criteria" is commonly misperceived as a singular noun when it is actually the plural form of "criterion".
What is correct?
The correct singular form of "criteria" is "criterion". Use "criterion" when referring to a single standard or principle, and "criteria" when referring to multiple.
Examples of correct usage
- This is the main criterion for selection.
- The criteria for admission include academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
Grammar
