# measure

/ˈmɛʒɝ/ (US) · /mˈɛʒɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/measure
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. to find the size

verb · CEFR A2

to find the size, weight, or amount of something using a tool like a ruler.

For teachers: to ascertain the size, amount, or degree of something by using an instrument or device marked in standard units.

- The tailor needs to measure your waist before he can make the suit.
- The surveyor used a laser rangefinder to measure the exact distance between the two structural supports before the concrete was poured.

### 2. to have a certain size

verb · CEFR B1

to be a specific size or length.

For teachers: to have a specified length, width, or amount; used as a stative verb.

- The new dining table measures two metres long.
- The earthquake's primary rupture measured nearly fifty kilometres in length, causing significant displacement along the fault line.

### 3. to judge or evaluate

verb · CEFR B2

to judge the quality or value of something.

For teachers: to assess or evaluate the importance, effect, or value of something.

- It is hard to measure the success of the project so early.
- Economists often struggle to measure the true impact of social media on national productivity levels.

### 4. an action taken

noun · CEFR B1

an official action taken to achieve a particular result.

For teachers: a plan or course of action intended to achieve a specific goal or to deal with a problem.

- The school took extra safety measures to protect the students.
- The government introduced emergency measures to stabilise the currency after the sudden drop in oil prices.

### 5. a unit or system

noun · CEFR B1

a standard unit used for expressing size or amount.

For teachers: a standard unit or system used for expressing the dimensions, capacity, or amount of something.

- The kilogram is a measure of weight used in most countries.
- The metric system provides a universal measure for scientific research, ensuring consistency across international laboratories.

### 6. music

noun · CEFR B2

a small group of notes in music, also called a bar.

For teachers: a group of beats in a musical score, typically separated by vertical lines.

- The flute player started playing from the third measure of the song.
- The conductor asked the violins to repeat the final four measures to ensure the crescendo was perfectly synchronised.

## Examples

- The school introduced a new measure to improve student safety.
- The government is taking every possible measure to prevent the spread of the virus during the winter months.
- While the primary measure of success remains profitability, the board is increasingly considering environmental impact as a critical metric for long-term viability.

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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.