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medida

meh-DEE-dahmeˈðiða

measurement, size

Also: gauge, dimension
NounfA1
A hand holding a yellow tape measure stretched out next to a simple wooden block on a tabletop, indicating its length.

📝 In Action

Necesito tomar las medidas exactas antes de comprar el sofá.

A1

I need to take the exact measurements before buying the sofa.

¿Cuál es la medida de la piscina?

A2

What is the size of the pool?

La costurera me tomó la medida de la cintura.

B1

The seamstress took my waist measurement.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • tamaño (size)
  • dimensión (dimension)

Common Collocations

  • tomar medidas – to take measurements
  • dar la medida – to be the right size

measure, step

Also: provision, policy
NounfB1
A stylized figure wearing a blue uniform is seen placing a small red barrier post firmly onto a grassy patch, symbolizing official action.

📝 In Action

El gobierno implementó nuevas medidas para reducir la contaminación.

B1

The government implemented new measures to reduce pollution.

Debemos tomar medidas drásticas si queremos mejorar los resultados.

B2

We must take drastic steps if we want to improve the results.

La medida de prohibir el tráfico fue impopular.

C1

The measure to prohibit traffic was unpopular.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • acción (action)
  • paso (step)

Common Collocations

  • medidas de seguridad – security measures
  • tomar medidas – to take steps/action
  • medidas económicas – economic measures

extent, proportion

Also: fit, moderation
NounfB2
A clear glass jar filled with blue liquid that reaches exactly up to a distinct horizontal limit line marked near the top of the jar.

📝 In Action

El éxito fue en gran medida gracias a tu esfuerzo.

B2

The success was largely (to a great extent) thanks to your effort.

Quiero un vestido hecho a la medida.

B2

I want a custom-made (tailored to fit) dress.

En la medida de lo posible, evita los gastos innecesarios.

C1

As far as possible (to the extent possible), avoid unnecessary expenses.

Word Connections

Synonyms

  • límite (limit)
  • grado (degree)

Idioms & Expressions

  • en gran medida – largely, greatly, to a great extent
  • a la medida – custom-made, tailored, personalized
  • en la medida de lo posible – as far as possible

Translate to Spanish

✏️ Quick Practice

Quick Quiz: medida

Question 1 of 1

Which sentence uses 'medida' to mean 'a step or policy' taken by an organization?

📚 More Resources

👥 Word Family▼
medir(to measure) — Verb
medidor(meter, measurer) — Noun
mensurable(measurable) — Adjective
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼

Comes from the Latin word *mensura*, which meant 'measurement' or 'limit.' This word itself is related to the Latin verb *metiri*, meaning 'to measure.' The Spanish word kept the core idea of size and quantity, which later extended to mean an 'action taken' to manage or control a situation.

First recorded: 13th century

Cognates (Related words)

Portuguese: medidaItalian: misuraFrench: mesure

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 'medida' the same as 'measurement' in English?

Yes, 'medida' often means 'measurement' (like the size of a room). However, it also translates to the English word 'measure' when talking about steps or actions taken by a government or company (e.g., security measures).

How do I say 'to take measures' (meaning to take action)?

You use the phrase 'tomar medidas.' For example, 'Tenemos que tomar medidas para ahorrar agua' (We have to take measures/steps to save water).