Definition

1. Noun:
   • A temperature scale that defines the freezing point of water as 0 degrees and the boiling point of water as 100 degrees: The "international scale" is a standardized system for measuring temperature, specifically the Celsius scale, which is used worldwide in scientific and most general contexts.

Usage

• The term "international scale" is used to refer specifically to the Celsius temperature scale in formal or technical contexts, emphasizing its global standardization and acceptance.
• It is typically used as a singular noun phrase.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The experiment's results were recorded using the international scale. (This means the temperature was measured in degrees Celsius.)
  • Most countries report weather forecasts on the international scale.
  • To ensure consistency, all laboratory data must be reported on the international scale.

Advanced Usage

• "on the international scale": This prepositional phrase is commonly used to indicate that a measurement or value is given in degrees Celsius.
  • The melting point of the substance is 327.5 degrees on the international scale.

Variants and Related Words

• Celsius scale (n): The most common synonym for "international scale," named after the astronomer Anders Celsius.
• Centigrade scale (n): An older term, now largely replaced by "Celsius," meaning divided into 100 degrees.
• Kelvin scale (n): Another international temperature scale used in science, where 0 K is absolute zero. It is related but distinct, as its degree increments are the same size as Celsius degrees.

Synonyms

• Celsius scale: The direct and most frequently used synonym.
• Centigrade scale: A historical synonym, though its use has declined in favor of "Celsius."

Notes on Meaning

• The term "international scale" is highly specific and almost exclusively refers to the Celsius temperature system. It is not used for other types of scales (e.g., musical scales, measurement scales for weight).
• Its use underscores the scale's universal adoption in science, commerce, and daily life across nations.

Noun

1. a temperature scale that defines the freezing point of water as 0 degrees and the boiling point of water as 100 degrees