Measures: meaning, definitions and examples

⚖️
Add to dictionary

measures

 

[ˈmɛʒərz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

units of quantity

Measures refer to the quantities, weights, or dimensions of something. They are used to determine the size, amount, or extent of an object or substance.

Synonyms

dimensions, quantities, weights.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
measures

Use 'measures' when referring to actions taken to achieve a particular result, or to describe the size or amount of something using standard units.

  • The government has implemented measures to control inflation
  • The measures of the room are 20 feet by 15 feet
quantities

Use 'quantities' when referring to the amounts or number of something that can be measured or counted.

  • We need large quantities of fabric to make the costumes
  • The recipe requires small quantities of spices
dimensions

Use 'dimensions' when referring to the measurements that define the size and shape of something, typically in terms of length, width, and height.

  • The dimensions of the box are 30x20x15 cm
  • Understanding the dimensions of the problem is crucial
weights

Use 'weights' when referring specifically to how heavy something is or the measurements of heaviness.

  • The weights of the packages were checked before shipping
  • Different weights of dumbbells are available in the gym

Examples of usage

  • The recipe calls for specific measures of flour and sugar.
  • He took accurate measures of the room before buying furniture.
Context #2 | Noun

actions taken

Measures can also refer to actions taken in order to achieve a specific goal or address a particular issue. These measures are often planned and implemented to bring about a desired outcome.

Synonyms

actions, initiatives, steps.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
measures

This word is typically used to describe actions or procedures taken to achieve a specific goal, often in response to a problem or to improve a situation.

  • The government introduced new safety measures to prevent accidents
  • Strict measures are in place to control the spread of the virus
actions

Actions refer to specific deeds or activities carried out to accomplish a particular task or to bring about a result. It's a general term and can be used in a wide variety of contexts.

  • His actions saved the company from bankruptcy
  • She took immediate actions to fix the leak
steps

Steps describe individual stages or phases in a process to achieve a larger goal. It usually involves a sequence of actions that need to be followed methodically.

  • Following these steps will help you complete the project successfully
  • She explained the steps to obtain a driver's license
initiatives

Initiatives often refer to new plans or strategies intended to solve a problem or improve a situation. It usually implies a proactive approach and often involves a level of innovation or newness.

  • The school launched a recycling initiative to reduce waste
  • The health initiative aims to improve children's nutrition

Examples of usage

  • The government announced new measures to improve road safety.
  • We need to take urgent measures to protect the environment.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin term 'mensura,' which means measurement.
  • It has been used in English since the 14th century, originally relating to quantity in trade.
  • Measuring started with ancient civilizations, as they needed standardized units for farming and commerce.

Science

  • In science, accurate measures are crucial for experiments, as they ensure that results can be reproduced.
  • Different fields like physics and chemistry have specific ways they measure things, like weight, volume, and temperature.
  • The metric system, which includes units like meters and liters, aims for universal measures that are easy to understand worldwide.

Psychology

  • Psychologists often use measures to assess behaviors and thoughts, creating scales for things like happiness or anxiety levels.
  • Self-report measures can reveal personal insights, but they may not always be completely accurate due to bias.
  • Standardized measures enable comparisons between different groups, helping researchers draw meaningful conclusions.

Pop Culture

  • Songs and films often depict characters using measures, like weighing their options or assessing risks before making decisions.
  • In cooking shows, precise measures are key, as they determine the success of a recipe, making it a recurring theme in culinary entertainment.
  • Sports often highlight measures of performance, such as speed, distance, and scores, which keep fans engaged with statistics.

Literature

  • In poetry, the term 'measure' can refer to the rhythmic structure and metrical patterns that give the poem its flow.
  • Shakespeare frequently used structured measures to convey emotions, allowing rhythm to intensify dramatic moments.
  • Books about measurement, like 'The Measure of All Things,' explore cultural perceptions of how societies quantify their world.

Translations

Translations of the word "measures" in other languages:

🇵🇹 medidas

🇮🇳 माप

🇩🇪 Maßnahmen

🇮🇩 langkah-langkah

🇺🇦 заходи

🇵🇱 środki

🇯🇵 対策

🇫🇷 mesures

🇪🇸 medidas

🇹🇷 önlemler

🇰🇷 조치

🇸🇦 إجراءات

🇨🇿 opatření

🇸🇰 opatrenia

🇨🇳 措施

🇸🇮 ukrepi

🇮🇸 ráðstafanir

🇰🇿 шаралар

🇬🇪 ღონისძიებები

🇦🇿 tədbirlər

🇲🇽 medidas

Word Frequency Rank

At #881 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.