single standard

American  

[sing-guhl stan-derd] / ˈsɪŋ gəl ˈstæn dərd /

noun

1. 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.

2. monometallism.

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Etymology

Origin of single standard

An Americanism dating back to 1880–85

Example Sentences

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 human rights should apply.

From Salon • Mar. 24, 2024

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

He pointed out that Turkey, Egypt, Persia, and China were countries which had tried to get along with a "single standard," and which had fallen conspicuously behind.

From Japanese Girls and Women Revised and Enlarged Edition by Bacon, Alice Mabel