Inklingo

How to Say "measure" in Spanish

English → Spanish

medida

meh-DEE-dah/meˈðiða/

nounB1general
Use 'medida' when referring to an action, step, or policy implemented, especially by a government or organization, to achieve a specific goal.
A stylized figure wearing a blue uniform is seen placing a small red barrier post firmly onto a grassy patch, symbolizing official action.

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.

dosis

DOH-sees/ˈdo.sis/

nounB1general
Use 'dosis' when referring to a specific quantity or portion of something, like a substance, an ingredient, or even an abstract quality like humor or effort.
A gentle open human hand holding one single, tiny, glowing golden speck on the palm, symbolizing a small amount or a bit.

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 Actions vs. Amounts

Learners often confuse 'medida' (an action or policy) with 'dosis' (an amount or portion). Remember that 'medida' implies a deliberate step taken to influence a situation, while 'dosis' refers to a specific quantity of something.

Related Translations

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