Translation guide
The concept of measurement in Japanese is expressed through several words and patterns depending on what is being measured (size, weight, quantity, etc.) and the context (formal, casual, scientific). This guide covers the most common ways to talk about measurement for English-speaking learners.
To refer to the process or act of measuring something, such as length, weight, or volume.
The most common and general term for measurement, used in scientific, technical, and everyday contexts. Often implies using an instrument to obtain a numerical value.
We took a measurement of the temperature.
Similar to 測定 but often emphasizes the act of measuring with a meter or gauge, and is common in engineering and technical fields.
Specifically refers to surveying or measuring land, areas, or geographical features.
To talk about the numerical result or value obtained from measuring, such as someone's measurements or the dimensions of an object.
To refer to measurements of the human body, such as waist, chest, or height.
To refer to a standard unit used for measuring (e.g., meters, kilograms).
General word for 'unit' (of measurement, credit, etc.). Used in all contexts.
測定 is the most general term for measurement. 計測 is often used when referring to measurement with a meter or gauge, especially in engineering. 測量 is specifically for surveying land or large areas.
English 'measurement' can be ambiguous. In Japanese, you must choose the appropriate word based on context: 測定 for the act, 寸法 for dimensions, サイズ for size, etc. Using 測定 for body measurements sounds unnatural; use 身体測定 or 採寸 instead.
What are the measurements of this room?
Accurate measurement is necessary.
距離を計測する。
To measure distance.
土地の測量を行う。
To survey the land.
Refers to dimensions or measurements of an object (length, width, height). Commonly used in everyday contexts like clothing sizes or furniture dimensions.
Please tell me the measurements of this desk.
To take measurements.
Loanword from English 'size', used very commonly for clothing, shoes, and general dimensions. More casual than 寸法.
The size of this clothing is M.
Specifically refers to a measured value or reading, often used in scientific or technical contexts.
Please record the measurement values.
Standard term for physical measurements taken at schools or health check-ups (height, weight, etc.).
We had physical measurements at school.
Specifically refers to taking body measurements for tailoring or clothing fitting.
I had my measurements taken to make a suit.
Refers to the three measurements (bust, waist, hips), often used in fashion or casual conversation.
Her measurements are a secret.
The unit of length is the meter.
A formal or historical term for weights and measures collectively. Rarely used in daily conversation.
Standardization of weights and measures.
We need to take accurate measurements.