Measuring Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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measuring

[ˈmɛʒərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

tools and instruments

The act or process of determining the extent, dimensions, quantity, or capacity of something, especially by comparison with a standard unit.

Synonyms

assessing, gauging, quantifying.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
measuring

Used when determining the size, length, or amount of something using standard units.

  • Measuring the length of the table, measuring the temperature outside
quantifying

Used when expressing something in numbers or specific amounts, typically in a more technical or scientific context.

  • Quantifying the benefits of the new software, quantifying the risks involved in the project
gauging

Often used when estimating or judging something that is not easy to measure directly.

  • Gauging public opinion, gauging the reaction of the audience
assessing

Best suited when evaluating or analyzing the quality, ability, or significance of someone or something.

  • Assessing the student's performance, assessing the impact of the new policy

Examples of usage

  • Measuring the length of the table using a ruler.
  • Accurate measuring is essential in baking recipes.
Context #2 | Verb

action

To ascertain the size, amount, or degree of something by using an instrument or device marked in standard units.

Synonyms

assess, determine, gauge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
measuring

This word is often used when taking physical dimensions or quantities, often with the help of instruments or tools.

  • He spent the afternoon measuring the length and width of the room
  • Accurate measuring is crucial for woodworking projects
determine

This word is used when finding out something with certainty, often involving analysis or calculation. It applies to a wide range of contexts, including science, mathematics, and decision-making.

  • We need to determine the cause of the malfunction
  • The jury will determine whether the defendant is guilty or not
gauge

This word is used when estimating or evaluating the amount, level, or degree of something, sometimes in terms of perception or judgment rather than precise measurement. It can also refer to specific instruments used for measurement.

  • It's hard to gauge his reaction from just a brief phone call
  • The technician used a gauge to measure the pressure in the tank
assess

This word is commonly used in contexts where a detailed evaluation, often involving judgment or estimation, is required. It is frequently used in academic, professional, and management settings.

  • The teacher had to assess the students' essays
  • The company hired an expert to assess the damage to the building

Examples of usage

  • She was measuring the ingredients for the cake.
  • The tailor measured him for a new suit.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'measuring'

The word 'measuring' originated from the Middle English word 'mesuren', which came from the Old French 'mesurer' and ultimately from the Latin 'mensura', meaning 'a measuring, a measurement'. The concept of measuring has been essential throughout human history, enabling advancements in various fields such as science, engineering, and trade.


See also: countermeasure, immeasurability, immeasurable, measurable, measurably, measured, measurement, measurements, measures, unmeasurability, unmeasurable.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,040, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.