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  1. Home /
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  3. English Dictionary /
  4. measure up

measure up

/ˈmɛʒər ʌp/◆phrasal verb
to meet a standard or expectation

The new employee didn't measure up to the team's expectations.

The new employee failed to meet the team's standards.


◆ What It Really Means
To meet or fulfill a standard, requirement, or expectation.
¶ Literal Meaning
To take measurements to a higher level.
Literal Breakdown
measureto determine size or quantity+upto a higher level
◇ Mental Image
The mental image of comparing something against a standard or benchmark.
◈ When to Use
A manager evaluating an employee's performance during a review meeting.
◉ Cultural Note
Commonly used in English-speaking cultures to assess performance or quality.
informal

To meet or fulfill a standard, requirement, or expectation.

The product measures up to industry standards.

The product meets industry standards.

She measures up to the demands of her new role.

She fulfills the requirements of her new role.

Often used in negative constructions to indicate failure to meet expectations.

Collocations

measure up toto meet a specific standard or requirement

Synonyms

meet the standardfulfill the criterialive up to

Antonyms

fall shortdisappointfail

Related Phrases

fall shortphrase
to fail to meet a standard
live up tophrase
to meet expectations

Pro Tip

Common Usage

This phrase is often used in evaluations, reviews, or comparisons.

Gold Rule

Negative Constructions

It is frequently used in negative sentences to indicate failure.

Word Origin

From the verb 'measure' (to determine size or quantity) and the adverb 'up' (to a higher standard).

Usage Notes

Commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to evaluate performance or quality.

Word Breakdown

measure
to determine size or quantity
root
+
up
to a higher standard
adverb
English Dictionary
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