How to Say "measure" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “measure” is “medida” — use 'medida' when referring to an action, step, or policy implemented by an authority, like a government or organization.
medida
meh-DEE-dahmeˈðiða
Examples
El gobierno implementó nuevas medidas para reducir la contaminación.
The government implemented new measures to reduce pollution.
Debemos tomar medidas drásticas si queremos mejorar los resultados.
We must take drastic steps if we want to improve the results.
La medida de prohibir el tráfico fue impopular.
The measure to prohibit traffic was unpopular.
Plural Use
This meaning is very often used in the plural form ('medidas') when discussing policies or steps taken.
compás
Examples
Tienes que seguir el compás de la música.
You have to follow the beat of the music.
dosis
DOH-seesˈdo.sis
Examples
Su presentación tenía una dosis de humor muy necesaria.
His presentation had a much-needed bit of humor.
A veces solo necesitamos una dosis de motivación para empezar.
Sometimes we just need a measure of motivation to start.
Figurative Use
When used figuratively, 'dosis' usually refers to a small, specific amount of a quality, like patience, cynicism, or energy.
Confusing 'medida' with 'dosis'
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