How to say "measurement" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 測定そくていnoun, suru verb, transitive verbThe default word for measuring a quantity or value, such as temperature, speed, or weight. It focuses on the act of taking a measurement and the numerical result obtained.
- 観測かんそくnoun, suru verb, transitive verbCovers observation and surveying, with measurement as a secondary sense. It suits data gathered by watching or monitoring natural phenomena, such as weather, rather than deliberately measuring an object.
- 寸法すんぽうnounRefers to the measurement of size or dimensions of a physical thing, such as the length, width, or height of clothing, furniture, or a room. This is the word for taking someone's or something's measurements.
- 測量そくりょうnoun, suru verb, transitive verbMeans surveying: measuring land, terrain, or positions, as in mapping or construction work. For everyday senses of 'measurement' it is usually not the word you want; it really refers to this specialized field.
- 計測けいそくnoun, suru verb, transitive verbRefers to measuring as a technical or systematic activity, often in engineering, industry, or instrumentation. It overlaps with 測定 but tends to emphasize the process or technology of measuring rather than a single result.
Use 測定 for measuring a value, 計測 for measuring as a technical activity, 観測 for observation-based measurement, 寸法 for size or dimensions, and 測量 for land surveying.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
This browser can't play pronunciations (needs Safari 18.4 or later, or Chrome / Edge / Firefox).
