Scale Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
scale
[skeษชl ]
Definitions
measurement
A set of marks or points at regular intervals used for measuring or comparing things.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scale |
Used for a system or series of levels used for measuring something, often in scientific, musical, or economic contexts.
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| measure |
Used to determine the size, amount, or degree of something using standard units.
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| graduation |
Often refers to the process of receiving a degree or diploma after completing a course of study.
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| range |
Refers to the area or extent of something, often describing a variety of different aspects.
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Examples of usage
- The scale on the map shows the distance between the two cities.
- Our bathroom scale helps us track our weight changes over time.
musical
A sequence of notes arranged in a particular order, especially when played on a musical instrument.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scale |
This can also mean a range or system of levels, and it's often used in a mathematical or measurement context.
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| melody |
This is used when referring to a sequence of musical notes that are perceived as a single entity, often the main part of a song.
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| tune |
This is best used when talking about a piece of music that is easy to remember and often sung or played.
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| sequence |
Use this when talking about a specific order in which things follow each other, especially in a logical or planned way.
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Examples of usage
- She played a beautiful scale on the piano.
- The song started with a simple scale before building up to the chorus.
increase
To increase in size, amount, or intensity, typically gradually.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| scale |
This word appeared twice, but the usage can be similar. Usually associated with adjusting magnitude, particularly in digital, technical, or business frameworks.
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| expand |
Appropriate for situations where something is being made larger in size, quantity, or scope, often used in both personal and business contexts.
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| grow |
Commonly used for natural or gradual increase, often in personal development, business, and nature-related contexts.
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| escalate |
Often used in situations involving an increase in intensity or seriousness, particularly in negative or conflict-related scenarios.
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Examples of usage
- We need to scale up our production to meet the demand.
- The company scaled their advertising efforts to reach a wider audience.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In biology, 'scales' refer to the protective outer covering on creatures like fish and reptiles, crucial for their survival.
- In acoustics, a musical 'scale' is a series of notes that go up or down, forming the foundation for melodies.
Practical Applications
- Scales are vital in the kitchen for cooking, ensuring the right amount of ingredients is used for tasty recipes.
- In environmental science, scales help scientists measure the burden of pollutants and the health of ecosystems.
Cultural References
- The concept of balance scales has appeared in art and literature as a symbol of justice, representing fairness in society.
- In astrology, scales symbolize Libra, representing balance, harmony, and equality in relationships.
Psychology
- Humans often perceive numbers on a scale subjectively, leading to different interpretations of ideal weight and beauty.
- Scales can also be emotional; 'scaling up' refers to someone enhancing or increasing their feelings or behaviors, like when someone gets very excited.
Origin of 'scale'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'scale' comes from the Latin word 'scala,' meaning โladderโ or โstaircase,โ reflecting its purpose in measuring height or weight.
- In olden times, scales were often used for weighing precious metals to determine their value, emphasizing the importance of accuracy in trade.
The word 'scale' originated from the Latin word 'scala' meaning ladder or steps. It was first used in the 14th century to refer to a series of marks for measuring. Over time, its usage expanded to include musical sequences and the concept of increasing size or intensity.
See also: downscale, scalable, scaled, scales, scaling, upscale.