measure up: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘measure up’ mean?
The idiom "measure up" means to be equal to or reach a certain standard or expectation.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "up to par" means meeting or reaching a satisfactory standard or level of quality.
The idiom "rise to the occasion" means to perform exceptionally well or exceed expectations when faced with a challenge or difficult situation.
The idiom "rise to the challenge" means to confront and overcome a difficult situation or task with determination, resilience, and success.
The idiom "ready up" means to prepare or get ready for a particular task or event. It implies taking action to be fully prepared and organized.
The idiom "raise the bar" means to set a higher standard or expectation for something, often with the intention of encouraging improvement or achieving a higher level of performance.
The idiom "put to the test" means to evaluate or assess something or someone to determine their capabilities or suitability in a specific situation or challenge.
The idiom "punch above one's weight" means to achieve or perform at a level higher or more significant than expected for one's abilities or resources.
The idiom "pick on someone your own size" means to choose someone who is equal in strength or ability to engage in conflict or confrontation, rather than targeting someone who is weaker or unable to defend themselves.
The idiom "overstep the mark" means to go beyond the limits of what is considered acceptable or appropriate behavior.
The idiom "on the mark" means that something or someone is accurate or correct in their assessment or prediction.
Deciphering Standards
Measure up is an idiom that has its roots in the English language. It is a phrase with multiple meanings and uses, and can be found in various contexts. One common understanding of this idiom is to compare oneself or something to a standard or expectation, evaluating whether it meets the required criteria. This is similar to the idiom "make the grade," which refers to meeting a specific standard or level of performance.
Originating from the late 19th century, measure up has since become a widely used expression in both formal and informal language. Its figurative nature gives it versatility, allowing it to be used in various settings and situations. The phrase is flexible, making it applicable to an array of subjects, including individuals, objects, situations, and concepts.
In a literal sense, measure up refers to taking the accurate measurement of something. However, the idiom predominantly carries the metaphorical connotation of assessing or judging something against a predetermined standard. This standard may be subjective, such as personal expectations or goals, or it could be an objective measure that is universally recognized. This is similar to the idiom "up to par," which means meeting the expected standard or level of quality.
Measure up is commonly used in different domains, including education, sports, work, and personal relationships. In the academic realm, it can refer to the evaluation of students' performance against specific standards or grading criteria. This is akin to the idiom "fit the bill," which means to meet the requirements or qualifications for a particular role or situation.
In sports, the idiom can be employed to assess an athlete's abilities, skills, or achievements compared to those of others. This is similar to the idiom "one up," which means to outperform or surpass someone or something. At work, it can be used to determine an employee's competence or proficiency in meeting job requirements or company standards. In relationships, the idiom can imply whether someone fulfills the desired qualities or meets the expectations of a partner, friend, or family member. This is similar to the idiom "cut it," which means to be satisfactory or acceptable in a given situation.
Additionally, the idiom measure up can be used in a negative sense, indicating that someone or something falls short of meeting expectations or requirements. It may imply disappointment or a lack of satisfaction when an individual or object does not reach the desired level. This is similar to the idiom "fall short," which means to fail to meet a certain standard or expectation. In contrast, a positive use of the idiom suggests that someone or something has successfully met or exceeded the expected standard, eliciting a sense of accomplishment or approval.
Measure up is an idiom that continues to be widely used in contemporary conversations and writing. Its versatility and widespread applicability make it a valuable expression for expressing comparisons and evaluations. The idiom's enduring presence in the English language emphasizes the significance and relevance of assessing oneself or something against established criteria. As language evolves, measure up may adapt to new contexts and acquire nuanced meanings, persisting as a vibrant idiom in the ever-changing linguistic landscape. This article has explored how measure up relates to related idioms such as "up to par," "cut it," "make the grade," "fit the bill," and "one up."
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "measure up" can be used in a sentence:
1. Despite his efforts, John always feels he doesn't measure up to his high-achieving siblings.
2. The new employee was nervous about the job interview, hoping he would measure up to the expectations of the employer.
3. The coach is constantly pushing the athletes to work harder and improve their skills, urging them to measure up to their full potential.
More "Comparison" idioms
