What is measure? Pronunciation and usage in English

measure means . Learn how to pronounce and use measure through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of measure

measureverb/noun

/ˈmɛʒə/
Definition & pronunciation of measure

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "measure" in English. It's a tricky one! Here's a breakdown with a few approaches:

1. The Most Common (and Generally Accepted) Pronunciation:

  • ˈmes.ʃər (rhymes with "mesh-er")

    • ˈmes: Say "mess" but with a shorter, sharper "e" sound. Think of the "e" in "bed."
    • ʃər: This is the key! This is the "sh" sound, but it's a voiceless sh sound. It’s like the "sh" in "ship" or "shoe." It's not the same as the "sh" in "she."

2. A More Traditional (But Less Widely Used) Pronunciation:

Some older pronunciations still exist, especially in British English:

  • mɛʒ.ər (rhymes with "edge-er")

    • mɛʒ: This is a shorter, more clipped "me" sound, almost like "meh."
    • ər: This is the schwa sound, the "uh" sound, as in "about."

Tips for Getting It Right:

  • Focus on the “sh” sound: Really practice saying "ship" or "shoe" and try to keep that same quality of sound – voiceless.
  • Don't overemphasize the "er" at the end: It’s a softer, unstressed sound.
  • Listen to Examples: The best way to learn is to hear native speakers. Here are some resources:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • Where are you located? (e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Australia) – Pronunciation can vary slightly between English dialects.

Usage and examples with the word measure in English

Let's break down how to use the word "measure" in English. It's a really versatile word with several different meanings and ways to use it. Here's a breakdown categorized for clarity:

1. As a Verb (to determine size, quantity, or degree):

  • Measuring something: This is the most common usage. It means to determine the size, length, weight, or amount of something.
    • Example: "I need to measure the room before buying the carpet." (Determining the size)
    • Example: "He measured the ingredients carefully to make sure the recipe was correct." (Determining quantity)
    • Example: "The police measured his blood pressure." (Determining a degree – in this case, a physical measurement)
  • Using a tool to measure:
    • Example: “She used a ruler to measure the length of the table.”
    • Example: “Please measure the flour with a cup.”
  • Judging or assessing (figuratively): "Measure" can also mean to judge something, often in terms of worth or value.
    • Example: “Don’t measure your success by other people’s standards.” (Don’t judge your success based on others).
    • Example: "The jury will measure the evidence to determine guilt." (They will assess the evidence.)

2. As a Noun (an instrument or method of measuring):

  • A tool for measuring: This refers to the physical device used to take measurements.
    • Example: “I need a new measure for my baking.” (Referring to a measuring cup)
    • Example: “He used a measure to pour the wine.”
  • A standard or unit of measurement: This refers to the scale used for comparison.
    • Example: “The temperature is measured in Celsius.” (Celsius is the unit of measurement)
    • Example: “The height is measured in inches.” (Inches are the unit of measurement)
  • (Archaic/Literary) A portion or quantity: This is a less common usage today, but it's important to know. Historically, "measure" referred to a quantity of liquid, often used in brewing or winemaking.
    • Example (rare): “A measure of ale.”

3. Phrases using "Measure":

  • Take measures: To take action to deal with a problem or achieve a goal.
    • Example: “The company is taking measures to improve customer service.”
  • Measure up to: To meet a standard or expectation.
    • Example: "Does he measure up to the demands of the job?"
  • Measure the impact of: To assess the effects of something.
    • Example: “We need to measure the impact of the new policy.”
  • Measure twice, cut once: A proverb meaning to plan carefully before starting a task to avoid mistakes.

Here's a table summarizing the different uses:

Part of Speech Meaning Example
Verb To determine size/quantity/degree “I need to measure the tablecloth.”
Verb (Figurative) To judge, assess “Don’t measure your worth by your job.”
Noun Measuring tool “He used a measure to pour water.”
Noun Unit of measurement “The height is measured in feet.”
Noun (Archaic) Portion/quantity “A measure of wine.”

Resources for Further Learning:

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about when you want to use "measure"? (e.g., cooking, science, general conversation, writing, etc.)

Synonyms for the word measure

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