What are the definitions of “measure up”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “measure up”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb measure up is to find the size of something or determine its dimensions. For example, it can mean measuring the length, width, or height of an object or space.
What are the different verb forms of “measure up”?
| Root Verb | measure up |
| Third Person Singular Present | measures up |
| Present Participle | measuring up |
| Simple Past | measured up |
| Past Participle | measured 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.
Example
She is measuring up the space for the new bookshelf.
Example
Yesterday, they measured up the area for the new playground.
Example
The dimensions of the room had been measured up before the renovation.
What kind of phrasal verb is “measure up”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“measure up” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The new employee didn't measure up to our expectations.
Example
The product didn't measure up to the advertised claims.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“measure up” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The new employee didn't measure up to our expectations.
Example
The product didn't measure up to the advertised claims.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “measure up”?
Good things to know
Does “measure up” have an informal or formal tone?
Measure up is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
