to take measures against
2
3.5
- phrasal verb
- Formal
- In response to the recent spike in crime, local authorities will take measures against theft and vandalism.
Examples
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But I have heard that the chamberlain is urging him -to take measures against the monster.
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It outlines the general obligation for all states to take measures against pollution, including the establishment of national rules, standards, practices, and procedures, as well as to cooperate with neighboring states at the regional level.
Academic text (2005) -
The city plans to take measures against rising air pollution by increasing green spaces.
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To protect their crops, farmers must take measures against pests and diseases.
Synonyms
388
2.8
To do something to solve a problem or make a change
82
3.6
Do things to avoid harm or danger
44
4.8
To act against something to reduce its effect
Antonyms
How Active
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning 'to do something in order to prevent or deal with a problem' is directly derivable from 'take' (to undertake), 'measures' (actions or steps), and 'against' (directed toward a problem). This verb + noun + preposition pattern is common across languages (e.g., Spanish 'tomar medidas contra', French 'prendre des mesures contre') and follows standard English composition, so a B1 learner who knows the parts will readily understand it.
Etymology
The phrase take measures against comes from a clear image: you take steps or tools called measures and put them against a problem, like placing sandbags to stop floodwater. That's why it means 'to do something to prevent or deal with a problem'.