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

Practice with vocabulary measure

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. Before purchasing new furniture, it's essential to carefully _______ the dimensions of the room.
  2. The company implements strict quality control procedures to _______ the consistency of its products.
  3. Scientists often use specialized equipment to _______ the seismic activity in earthquake-prone regions.
  4. To achieve project success, it's critical to _______ resources efficiently and set realistic deadlines.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer (there may be multiple correct answers per question)

  1. Which of the following terms specifically refers to determining the dimensions, amount, or extent of an object or phenomenon, often by comparison with a standard? a) Appraise b) Gauge c) Measure d) Estimate
  2. When developing a new product, what steps might a team take to evaluate its market viability? a) Market research b) Benchmark competition c) Measure customer interest d) Forecast sales
  3. To ensure fairness in an assessment, it's important to use criteria that are observable and _______. a) Subjective b) Measurable c) Abstract d) Qualitative
  4. Before signing a major contract, it is prudent to carefully _______ all the clauses and terms. a) Review b) Scrutinize c) Bypass d) Overlook
  5. What actions are essential for effectively managing a team's performance? a) Delegate tasks b) Monitor progress c) Motivate members d) Evaluate outcomes

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: The government announced new initiatives to check the levels of air pollution in urban areas. Rewrite using "measure" or a related word form:
  2. Original: It is crucial for businesses to find out the success of their marketing campaigns. Rewrite using "measure" or a related word form:
  3. Original: When dealing with sensitive client information, it's vital to be careful and discreet. Rewrite using a suitable replacement word (do not use "measure" or its forms):

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. measure
  2. ensure
  3. measure
  4. allocate

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. b) Gauge, c) Measure
  2. a) Market research, b) Benchmark competition, c) Measure customer interest, d) Forecast sales
  3. b) Measurable
  4. a) Review, b) Scrutinize
  5. a) Delegate tasks, b) Monitor progress, c) Motivate members, d) Evaluate outcomes

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. The government announced new initiatives to measure the levels of air pollution in urban areas.
  2. It is crucial for businesses to measure the success of their marketing campaigns.
  3. When dealing with sensitive client information, it's vital to exercise caution and discretion.

Comment ()