Measure Twice, Cut Once
To measure is to find the size of something. The noun also names a unit, a step taken by a government, and a bar of music.
To measure is to determine size, amount or degree. The noun spreads much further than the verb: a *measure* is a unit, a bar of music in American usage, a step taken to solve a problem, and a bill before a legislature. The carpenter's proverb — measure twice, cut once — is the shortest advice on planning in the language.
- To determine size or amount. *Measure the room.*
- A unit or standard. *A measure of whisky.*
- An action taken. *Emergency measures.*
- A bar of music (American). *Four measures rest.*
Word forms
| Form | Word | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Verb | measure | Measure it twice. |
| Noun | measure | A precautionary measure. |
| Noun | measurement | Exact measurements. |
| Adjective | measurable | A measurable effect. |
| Adjective | measured | A measured response. |
How it is used in a sentence
- The room measures four metres by three.Measure can take no object.
- The government announced new measures.Actions, not units.
- His reply was measured and calm.Measured means deliberate and controlled.
Measure in phrases
- Made to measure — tailored to exact dimensions
- For good measure — a little extra thrown in
- Beyond measure — immeasurably
- A measure of — a certain amount of (*a measure of success*)
- Take the measure of — assess someone accurately
From Old French *mesure*, from Latin *mensura*, from *metiri*, to measure — the same root as *dimension*, *immense* and *commensurate*.
Measure or measurement?
A measurement is the figure you obtain. A measure is a unit, a standard or an action taken.
What does *made to measure* mean?
Made to a customer's own dimensions, as opposed to off the peg. Bespoke goes further and includes a pattern cut for one person.