gauge

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "gauge" is correct and usable in written English.
The verb "to gauge" means to measure or estimate, and the noun can mean a measuring device, a standard of measurement, or a rough estimate or approximation. For example, "We used a gauge to measure the width of the board."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's hard to gauge.

The Guardian - Film

However, in the wake of the mass slaughter in the US, and the arrest of three IRA suspects in Colombia, the atmosphere in Belfast is difficult to gauge.

The Guardian

Even 100 years from now, it is likely that there will be subtleties that remain cloudy about how exactly we should gauge the mental wellbeing of a nation's citizens.

The Guardian

I can't gauge whether this film is erotic or unerotic, but it is sensual.

The Guardian - Film

Timeline It seems Netflix is trying to gauge how badly the news of an increased charge will be received by subscribers, allowing a bit of time between this announcement and firm details of a new subscription package.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

How Kevin Pietersen fits into this is hard to gauge but if his ambition is still there then so should he be.

The Guardian - Sport

A long bus journey to Kalka in the plains, and then the fabulous narrow gauge railway, through a hundred tunnels and countless bridges, amid awesome sights and scenery.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But it also let Russians gauge attitudes towards their country – and the cold draft that blew in from the west was sobering.

The Guardian - Opinion

Socrative, which lets teachers use real-time questioning, result aggregation and visualisation to gauge the level of understanding in the class, has teachers in the UK and US raving.

The Guardian

It is hard to accurately gauge the personality of this team even in the present.

The Guardian - Sport

Nato members also need to gauge the wisdom of being seen to be bombing President Assad's enemies.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "gauge" in writing, ensure that the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to a method of measurement, the act of assessing, or a physical instrument. Providing specific details or examples can enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid confusing "gauge", which refers to measuring or assessing, with "gage", an archaic word related to pledges or challenges. Use "gauge" when you mean to measure something, either literally or figuratively.

Linguistic Context

The word "gauge" functions both as a noun, referring to a measuring instrument or a standard dimension, and as a verb, meaning to estimate or measure. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Examples show it used to assess situations, measure physical quantities, and appraise abilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gauge" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and a verb, commonly used to indicate measurement, assessment, or estimation. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct, and it enjoys very common usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Science. Key related phrases include "assess", "estimate", and "measure", offering alternative ways to convey similar meanings. It's essential to differentiate "gauge" from its homophone "gage" to avoid confusion. While "gauge" is a neutral term, its specific meaning depends on context, ensuring clarity in writing. Prominent sources like The Guardian and The Economist frequently employ "gauge", solidifying its authoritative and widespread usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assess

Replaces "gauge" by focusing on the evaluation aspect.

estimate

Similar to "gauge" in meaning to make an approximate calculation.

measure

Emphasizes the use of a standard unit for quantitative determination.

evaluate

Like "gauge", this alternative underlines the appraisal component.

appraise

Focuses on forming a judgment or opinion on the value of something.

determine

Indicates a conclusive finding or decision, unlike the approximate nature of "gauge".

ascertain

Implies discovering something with certainty through investigation.

calculate

This refers specifically to determining something using mathematical processes.

judge

Replaces "gauge" when referring to forming an opinion or evaluation.

get the measure of

Idiomatic way of saying to understand or assess someone or something.

FAQs

How can I use "gauge" in a sentence?

You can use "gauge" as a verb to mean 'estimate or determine the magnitude, amount, or volume of' as in, 'Use this tool to "gauge" the water level' or as a noun referring to a measuring instrument.

What's the difference between "gauge" and "assess"?

"Gauge" implies measuring or estimating something, often quantitatively, while "assess" means to evaluate or judge the nature, ability, or quality of something. You might "gauge" public opinion before you "assess" the success of a campaign.

What can I say instead of "gauge"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like ""assess"", "estimate", "measure", or "evaluate".

Is it correct to use "gauge" in a business context?

Yes, it's perfectly acceptable. In business, "gauge" can be used to describe the process of assessing market conditions, consumer sentiment, or the effectiveness of a strategy. For instance, 'We need to "gauge" investor interest before launching the new product'.