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Glite Dictionary
metric system

metric system

8 2.6
A system of measurement using meters, kilograms, and seconds
  • noun
  • /ˈmɛtrɪk ˈsɪstəm/
translation icon : sistema métrico
  • It's because the metric system makes entirely too much sense.
  • metric system measures

If you are in the metric system, get with the program Merica.

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Examples

  • Also, they may convert between English units of measure and the metric system.

    Academic text (2007)

  • The metric system is widely used around the world, making it easier for international trade.

  • But I agree, the metric system is better.

    I've Had It

  • The kids are learning the metric system here.

    Poison Ivy (1992)

  • Think this county will ever switch to the metric system?

    The End (1978)

  • Math should emphasize the metric system.

    Academic text (1990)

  • Measurements are available in both standard and metric systems, making this an excellent tool for mathematics activities that involve using both units of length.

    Academic text (2015)

  • In addition to the use of blueprints, many industries rely on the metric system.

    Academic text (1990)

  • The Canadians were not afraid of changes such as adopting the metric system.

    Blog text (32)

  • The metric system permeates most industries, yet is often taught as an isolated chapter in our textbooks.

    Academic text (1990)

Synonyms

SI
vsmetric system
  • Specialized
9 3.7

A worldwide system for measurements using units like the meter, kilogram, and second

is the broader decimal system centred mainly on length mass and time
International System
vsmetric system
  • Specialized
1 3.9

A standard set of units like metre and kilogram that people use worldwide to measure

is the simpler worldwide decimal method centred on three principal units
International System of Units
vsmetric system
  • Specialized
3.5

A modern system of measurement used worldwide that defines units like the meter and kilogram

is the simpler decimal system focused on core length mass and time
Système International d'Unités
vsmetric system
  • Specialized
4.1

An international metric system of measurement used in science and engineering, with units like the metre and kilogram

is a more general decimal system based mostly on three basic units
Système International
vsmetric system
  • Specialized
4.1

An international system of units used in science like the meter and kilogram

is the general decimal framework that emphasises meter kilogram and second
SI system
vsmetric system
  • Specialized
3.4

A standard metric system for measuring things used worldwide in science and industry

is the older general decimal approach concentrating on length mass and time

Antonyms

British Imperial System
  • Archaic
7.3

A system of measuring distance, weight, and liquid once used in Britain using feet, pounds, and pints

How Metric

metric
5 3.9
metric system
8 2.6
non-metric
  • Specialized
7.2
imperial
  • UK
7 6.1

Surface Forms

metric system singular
metric systems plural

Morphology

metric + system

The meaning 'a decimal system of measurement' is directly compositional from 'metric' (relating to measurement/metric units) and 'system' (a structured set), so a learner who knows both words can infer the phrase. This construction is also common cross-linguistically (e.g. French 'système métrique', Spanish 'sistema métrico'), reinforcing its transparency for B1 learners.

Etymology

Metric system takes its name from the basic unit, the meter, and was made in France after the French Revolution to give everyone one easy way to 'measure' using steps of 'ten'. That's why today metric system means the common set of units used around the world.