Units: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe individual measurable quantities or elements in fields like science, mathematics, and everyday situations that involve counting or measuring.

• The length of the table is 5 units
• Electricity is measured in units called kilowatt-hours

Used when discussing the process of determining the size, amount, or degree of something. It is also used as a noun to refer to the result or standard of measurement.

• You need to measure the ingredients accurately
• The measure of success can be different for everyone

Used to describe an accepted or approved example or criterion, typically in formal or official contexts. Often implies a level of quality or performance that is expected.

• We need to maintain industry standards for safety
• The ISO 9001 certification is a standard for quality management

Commonly used in contexts involving systems or methods of measurement, especially the Metric System in science and engineering. Also used to describe standards or criteria used to evaluate something.

• The project's metrics indicate significant progress
• Distance in most countries is measured using the metric system, such as meters and kilometers

General term for a group of people or things that work together for a common purpose. Often used in military, police, or organizational contexts.

• The police units were deployed around the city.
• The basic combat units in the army are crucial for mission success.

A group of soldiers, but can also refer to groups of scouts or performers. In military terms, often used to describe groups smaller than battalions.

• The troop moved silently through the forest.
• A troop of girls scouts set up camp in the clearing.

A military unit, usually related to air or naval forces, consisting of several vehicles or vessels. Can also refer to a cavalry unit.

• The fighter squadron flew over the enemy territory.
• The squadron of warships patrolled the coastline.

A large military unit typically consisting of 300 to 1,200 soldiers. Used specifically in the context of ground forces.

• The battalion marched through the night to reach their destination.
• He was promoted to commander of the battalion.

Use this when referring to individual sections within a larger complex or building, especially in the context of real estate or property management.

• We have several units available for rent in this building.
• The apartment complex contains 20 units.

Commonly used in North America, this refers to a self-contained housing unit that occupies part of a building.

• She lives in a small apartment downtown.
• I just moved into a new apartment on the second floor.

Commonly used in British English, this has the same meaning as 'apartment', referring to a self-contained housing unit within a larger building.

• They rented a flat in central London.
• Her flat is on the third floor of the building.

Short for condominium. Use when referring to a privately-owned individual unit within a larger building or complex, often with shared common areas.

• They bought a condo by the beach last year.
• Living in a condo means you have to pay monthly maintenance fees.