measuring stick
Noun: A measuring stick is a long, thin object, typically made of wood, metal, or plastic, that has a series of marks (like lines, numbers, or units) at regular intervals along its length. It is used as a standard tool to determine the length, height, or depth of something by comparing it to these marks.
A measuring stick is a physical tool used for taking linear measurements. It is a type of ruler, but the term often implies a rigid, straight stick-like form, as opposed to a flexible tape measure. * You use a measuring stick to find out how long, tall, or wide an object is. * It serves as a fixed reference for making accurate comparisons.
- Noun:
- The carpenter used a wooden measuring stick to check the length of the board.
- For this experiment, you will need a precise measuring stick marked in centimeters.
- He placed the measuring stick vertically against the wall to see how much the plant had grown.
- Figurative Use (Metaphor): The term "measuring stick" is often used metaphorically to mean a standard or criterion used to judge the quality, value, or success of something.
- In this industry, customer satisfaction is the ultimate measuring stick for success.
- His father's achievements were a difficult measuring stick for him to live up to.
- Ruler: A straight strip, often shorter, used for measuring and drawing straight lines.
- Yardstick: A measuring stick one yard (three feet) in length. Also used figuratively like "measuring stick."
- Meter stick: A measuring stick one meter in length.
- Scale: A system of ordered marks at fixed intervals used for measurement; or the instrument bearing such marks.
- Tape measure: A flexible ruler housed in a case, used for measuring over curves or long distances.
- Rule (as in a carpenter's rule)
- Measure (as a noun: "a tailor's measure")
- Standard (primarily in the figurative sense)
(While "measuring stick" itself is not typically part of phrasal verbs, these phrases involve its use.) * To hold something up to the measuring stick: To evaluate or judge something against a standard. * Every new policy is held up to the measuring stick of public benefit.
- A different yardstick: A different standard or set of criteria for judgment.
- We must use a different yardstick when evaluating artistic work compared to technical work.(Note: "Yardstick" is more common than "measuring stick" in this idiomatic expression.)
- measuring instrument having a sequence of marks at regular intervals; used as a reference in making measurements