# size up

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/size-up
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To evaluate; to estimate or anticipate the magnitude, difficulty, or strength of something.

## Examples

- I need a moment to size up the situation before I act.
- The coach watched the opposing team during warm-ups to size up their strengths and weaknesses.
- As the two negotiators sat across from each other, they spent the first few minutes silently sizing up their opponent's resolve.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.