What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
meter
Example
The electricity meter shows how much power we've used this month. [meter: noun]
Example
The poem has a consistent meter that creates a musical quality. [meter: noun]
Example
The distance between the two points is 10 meters. [meters: plural noun]
gauge
Example
The fuel gauge shows how much gas is left in the tank. [gauge: noun]
Example
The wire gauge determines the thickness of the wire. [gauge: noun]
Example
The teacher will use this test as a gauge of our understanding of the material. [gauge: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Meter is more commonly used than gauge in everyday language, especially in technical or scientific contexts. Gauge is less common and often used in specific industries or professions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between meter and gauge?
Both meter and gauge can be used in formal or technical contexts, but gauge may be more informal due to its association with specific industries or professions.
