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measure

/ˈmɛʒə/

When used as a noun to mean a 'plan of action', it is very common to use the plural form "measures" (e.g., "safety measures"). As a verb, be careful with the difference between measuring something (using a tool) and something that 'measures' a certain size (describing its dimensions).

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Chloe is in her dorm room trying to assemble a cheap desk.
Chloe

this desk is a joke. did you even measure the space in my room?

Chloe
David
David

I eyeballed it. Just pivot your strategy and make it fit.

💡
Chloe is using 'measure' as a verb to ascertain size, expressing her frustration with the furniture not fitting. David responds by using 'eyeballed it' (a colloquialism for estimating without tools) and incorrectly applies the corporate buzzword 'pivot' to a home decorating problem.

Meanings

noun

A standard unit used to express the size, amount, or degree of something.

"The meter is a standard measure of length."

noun

A plan or course of action taken to achieve a particular purpose.

"The government introduced new measures to combat inflation."

verb (transitive)

To ascertain the exact size, amount, or degree of something by using an instrument or device.

"Please measure the width of the window before buying curtains."

verb (transitive)

To judge the importance, effect, or value of something.

"It is difficult to measure the success of the project at this stage."

verb (intransitive)

To have a particular size, length, or width.

"The table measures six feet by three feet."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error