fare meter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fare meter" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a device in taxis or other vehicles that calculates the fare based on distance traveled or time taken. Example: "The taxi driver turned on the fare meter as soon as we got in, so we could see how much the ride would cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

They were accused of intentionally activating a mechanism on the fare meter that triggered a higher rate.

The New York Times

These rules run the gamut: running a red light, giving incorrect change, tampering with a fare meter, refusing to pick up a passenger, not taking the shortest route.

The New York Times

A working fare meter.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The shiny red cars were imported from France, equipped with fare meters and lined up at a stand outside the Plaza Hotel.

The New York Times

Puducherry: The administration in this union territory has instructed auto-rickshaw owners to install fare meters in their vehicles by the end of November, following complaints from customers that drivers were overcharging, the New Indian Express reported.

The New York Times

A company spokesman, Kristian Agerbo, said on Tuesday Uber "must take the consequences" of the rules, which among other things will require cabs to be fitted with seat occupancy sensors and fare meters.

The Guardian - Tech

Uber pulled out of the Danish market, where it had 2,000 drivers and more than 300,000 customers, in April this year when fare meters and seat occupancy sensors became mandatory for all vehicles providing a taxi service.

The Guardian - Business

Hearst told Allen to ignore his critics because "they'll all be riding in your cabs sooner or later". On October 1, 1907, Allen achieved revenge by orchestrating a parade of sixty-five shinewnew red gasoline-powered French Darracq cabs, equipped with fare meters, down Fifth Avenue.

The New York Times - Books

Patrons pay a flat fee for transport within about a 4km radius around an urban centre, eliminating disputes over confusing rate structures and "broken" fare meters.

BBC

Meanwhile Uber pulled out of Denmark early last year, blaming a new taxi law which includes requirements such as mandatory fare meters and seat sensors.

TechCrunch

Uber says it will pull out of Denmark next month, on April 18, blaming a new taxi law that includes requirements such as mandatory fare meters and seat sensors.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about taxis, ensure that the presence and proper functioning of a "fare meter" is clearly stated, especially when discussing regulations or potential overcharging.

Common error

Don't assume all taxis use "fare meters". In some regions, fares are negotiated beforehand or based on zones, particularly outside of city centers. Always specify when the fare is "metered" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The noun phrase "fare meter" functions as a noun, typically serving as the subject or object in a sentence. It refers to a specific device used in taxis and other vehicles to calculate the cost of a journey. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with examples from news and media sources.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fare meter" is a noun phrase that describes a device in vehicles like taxis that calculates the fare. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct. While the term is not frequently encountered (rare usage), it is broadly understood and used in neutral contexts, primarily in news and media and wiki sources. When using the phrase, remember that not all taxis utilize "fare meters"; some use fixed fares. Related phrases include "taxi meter" and "fare calculator". Ensure your writing is clear about how fares are determined, avoiding assumptions. "Fare meter" usage is confirmed by authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

taxi meter

A shorter, more common synonym referring to the same device in a taxi.

cab meter

Another synonym, using "cab" instead of "taxi".

taximeter

A more technical term for a fare meter.

metered fare system

Focuses on the system rather than the physical device, describing how fares are calculated.

time and distance meter

Emphasizes the two factors used in calculating the fare.

fare calculator

Highlights the function of calculating the fare, regardless of the device used.

automatic fare calculation

Focuses on the automated aspect of fare calculation.

distance-based pricing

Describes the pricing model rather than the specific device.

electronic meter

Specifies that the meter is electronic.

regulated fare system

Highlights that the fares are officially regulated.

FAQs

What is another term for a fare meter?

A common alternative for "fare meter" is "taxi meter", which is widely understood and used.

How does a fare meter work?

A "fare meter" calculates the cost of a taxi ride based on a combination of distance traveled and time elapsed, often including a base fare and additional charges.

Is it legal for a taxi not to use a fare meter?

In many jurisdictions, it's illegal for taxis not to use a functioning "fare meter". However, in some areas, especially for pre-booked services or travel outside city limits, fares may be negotiated instead. Always check local regulations.

What should I do if a taxi driver refuses to use the fare meter?

If a taxi driver refuses to use the "fare meter", you should note the taxi's information and report the incident to the local taxi authority or consumer protection agency. You can also negotiate a "fixed fare" before starting the trip.