Differences between look up and measure up
Look up means to search for information or to admire someone or something, while measure up means to compare or evaluate something or someone against a standard or expectation.
Meanings and Definitions: look up vs measure up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Look up
- 1Consult a reference work ( dictionary, phonebook, etc. ) for a specific piece of information..
I didn't know the correct spelling so I had to LOOK it UP in the dictionary.
- 2Improve.
The economy is LOOKING UP.
- 3Find, trace an old friend.
I LOOKED him UP when I went back to Cambridge.
Measure up
- 1Find the size of something.
The estate agent MEASURED UP all the rooms.
- 2Be good enough, meet the required standard.
She didn't MEASURE UP in her probationary period, so we didn't extend her contract.
- 3Be good enough.
They made her a director, but she didn't MEASURE UP.
- 4Be good enough or worthy of something.
I hope to MEASURE UP TO the confidence you have in me.
Usage Examples: look up, measure up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
look up
Example
When I don't know a word, I look it up in the dictionary.
Example
She looks up new recipes online every week.
measure up
Example
The tailor measured up the fabric for the new dress.
Example
He measures up the room to see if the new furniture will fit.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look up
To investigate or study a subject or topic in detail.
Example
She spent hours researching the best schools for her children.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Measure up
meet expectations
To fulfill or satisfy the requirements or standards set for something or someone.
Example
The new employee needs to meet expectations in order to keep their job.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Phrasal Verbs with “measure”
Differences in look up vs measure up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: look up or measure up?
In daily conversation, people use look up more often than measure up. This is because look up is used for more common tasks such as searching for information on the internet or finding a word in a dictionary. Measure up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about comparing or evaluating something or someone against a standard or expectation. So, while both phrases are used, look up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look up and measure up
Look up and measure up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of look up and measure up
The tone of look up and measure up can differ based on context. Look up often carries a curious or admiring tone when related to searching for information or admiring someone or something, while measure up typically has a critical or evaluative tone, especially when referring to comparing or evaluating something or someone against a standard or expectation.
