Translation guide
The English word "measure" covers several distinct concepts: taking action, quantifying dimensions, a unit or standard, and a degree or amount. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
To take a measure or step, often in response to a problem or to achieve a goal.
Formal term for a measure or step taken, often by authorities or in official contexts.
The government took emergency measures.
Countermeasure or measure against a specific problem. Very common in news and business.
Means or measure; a method to achieve something. Broader than 対策.
Idiomatic phrase meaning 'to take measures' or 'to take steps'. Literally 'to strike a hand'.
To measure length, weight, volume, etc., using instruments.
General verb for measuring dimensions, weight, volume, etc. Use this for physical quantities.
A unit of measurement (e.g., a meter, a liter) or a standard for comparison.
Unit of measurement. Use for academic, scientific, or everyday units.
A certain amount or degree of something, often abstract (e.g., a measure of success, a measure of freedom).
A proposed law or legislative measure.
Bill or legislative measure. Standard term in political contexts.
All read はかる. 測る is for length, height, depth, etc. 計る is for time, numbers, or calculations. 量る is for weight or volume, but 測る is often used for weight as well. In many cases 測る is the safest choice for physical measurement.
measure body weight
We need to take measures against climate change.
感染症対策を強化する必要がある。
We need to strengthen measures against infectious diseases.
Let's think of measures to solve the problem.
早めに手を打たないと大変なことになる。
If we don't take measures early, it'll be a disaster.
Can you measure my height?
Please measure the weight of this box.
Often used for measuring time, counting, or gauging. Overlaps with 測る but more associated with time and numbers.
Measure time with a stopwatch.
Formal/technical verb for measuring or taking measurements. Common in science and engineering.
We need to measure the temperature accurately.
A meter is a unit of length.
Scale, yardstick, or standard for measuring or evaluating something abstract.
The measure of success varies from person to person.
Standard, criterion, or benchmark. Often used in evaluation contexts.
This test is not a measure of English ability.
Phrase meaning 'to some extent' or 'a certain degree'. Very common and natural.
He achieved a measure of success.
Degree, extent, or measure. Often used in formal or written contexts.
Assess the measure of risk.
The measure was passed by the Diet.
measure time
For abstract concepts like 'a measure of success', use ある程度 or 尺度, not 測る.
このテーブルのサイズを測ってもらえますか？
Can you measure this table?
The bill was a controversial measure.