single standard
Americannoun
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a single set of principles or rules applying to everyone, as a single moral code applying to both men and women, especially in sexual behavior.
Etymology
Origin of single standard
An Americanism dating back to 1880–85
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
There is no single, standard definition of middle class, or upper middle class, and what counts as a hefty income in one city can feel paltry in another.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 5, 2026
But with so many competing labels - as well as confusion over the definition of "AI-free" - experts say consumers are in danger of being left confused unless a single standard can be agreed on.
From BBC ● Mar. 15, 2026
A single standard of language should accompany a consistent standard of human rights, which the world desperately needs.
From Salon ● Oct. 25, 2023
There is no single standard for a supermajority, though the term generally is equated with whatever threshold is needed to override a gubernatorial veto.
From Seattle Times ● Jun. 16, 2023
A single standard of conduct for men and women is an iridescent dream.
From The History of Woman Suffrage, Volume V by Ida Husted Harper
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
