Inklingo

How to Say "dimension" in Spanish

English → Spanish

dimensión

nounB1general
Use 'dimensión' when referring to the physical size or measurement of something, especially in a scientific or abstract context, like the three dimensions of space.

Examples

Necesitamos las tres dimensiones: altura, anchura y profundidad.

We need the three dimensions: height, width, and depth.

medida

meh-DEE-dah/meˈðiða/

nounA1general
Use 'medida' when you are talking about taking physical measurements or the extent of something, often in a practical, everyday context like home improvement or shopping.
A hand holding a yellow tape measure stretched out next to a simple wooden block on a tabletop, indicating its length.

Examples

Necesito tomar las medidas exactas antes de comprar el sofá.

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

¿Cuál es la medida de la piscina?

What is the size of the pool?

La costurera me tomó la medida de la cintura.

The seamstress took my waist measurement.

Gender Rule

As a feminine word, 'medida' always uses feminine words before it, like 'la' or 'una'.

Dimensión vs. Medida

The most common mistake is using 'dimensión' when you actually mean a specific physical measurement. Remember, 'medida' is for taking or referring to specific extents, while 'dimensión' is broader, often referring to abstract or scientific concepts of size.

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