Unit: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to a single, undivided whole in various contexts such as measurements, education, or military.

• One unit of measurement in this system is a meter
• The math class focused on the unit about fractions
• Each soldier in the unit was well-trained

Used to describe something that exists independently and has its separate identity, often in legal, business, or philosophical contexts.

• The company became a separate legal entity
• Each entity in the database must have a unique identifier

Refers to a basic or essential part of something, often used in scientific, technical, or abstract contexts.

• Hydrogen is the lightest element on the periodic table
• Trust is a key element in any relationship

Describes a part or a piece of a larger system or machine, emphasizing its role within that system.

• The engine is a critical component of the car
• The software platform consists of several components working together

Refers to any single entity or an organized group of individuals within a larger organization, often used in military or technical contexts.

• The engineering unit successfully completed the project ahead of time.
• The medical unit was dispatched to provide aid to the injured soldiers.

Typically used to refer to soldiers or military personnel collectively, and can also describe a group of animals in some contexts. It often has a broader implication than 'platoon' or 'squad'.

• The general addressed the troops before the mission.
• A troop of monkeys was seen moving through the forest.

A small team or group within a larger organization, often used to describe a small military unit or a group working together for a specific task.

• The rescue squad acted quickly to save the stranded hikers.
• In the military, a squad usually consists of 8 to 12 soldiers.

Specifically used in a military context, referring to a subdivision of a company-sized military unit, usually consisting of two or more squads.

• The platoon leader gave the order to advance toward the objective.
• During training exercises, the platoon practiced various combat scenarios.

Used when referring to a single, complete element in a system, often in mathematics, science, or measuring.

• This unit of measurement is in kilograms.
• Each unit in this course includes a quiz.

Used when referring to an established norm or requirement, often used in regulatory or quality context.

• This product meets the safety standards.
• Living up to high standards is essential in this job.

Used when referring to the act of quantifying something, or the specific quantity determined.

• We need to measure the length of the room.
• His performance was below the required measure.

Used when referring to a standard or reference point for comparison or evaluation, often in performance assessments.

• We need to benchmark our progress against the industry standard.
• The benchmark test showed significant improvement.