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Glite Dictionary
tachymeter

tachymeter

9.9
A tool surveyors use to measure distances quickly
  • noun
  • /təˈkɪmɪtər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : taquímetro
  • The tachymeter provides quick distance measurements.

Examples

  • The surveyor used a tachymeter to quickly measure the distance between the two points.

  • Can you explain how a tachymeter works?

  • Modern tachymeters allow for efficient measurement even in difficult terrain.

  • The surveyor used a tachymeter to quickly map out the construction site.

  • Training in the use of a tachymeter is essential for field surveyors.

  • With a tachymeter in hand, the engineer swiftly calculated the elevation of the site.

  • The construction crew relied on the tachymeter to ensure accurate measurements for the foundation.

Synonyms

transit
vstachymeter
  • Archaic
15 8.9

A small telescope on a tripod used to measure horizontal and vertical angles

is used primarily to get distances quickly instead of only angle data
theodolite
vstachymeter
  • Specialized
1 9.9

A tool people use to measure side-to-side and up-and-down angles on land

is more about fast distance readings rather than mainly measuring angles
surveying instrument
vstachymeter
  • Specialized
1 5.1

A tool that measures distance, angles, and height to map land

is a specific instrument type that emphasises rapid distance measurement
tacheometer
vstachymeter
  • Archaic
9.9

An instrument for measuring distance, direction, and height on land quickly

is focused especially on quick distance measurement rather than general angle work
surveyor's instrument
vstachymeter
  • Specialized
5.8

A device that measures and maps land, buildings, or boundaries

is narrower, focusing on quick distance readings rather than broad measuring tasks

How Fast

tachymeter
  • Specialized
9.9
rangefinder
  • Specialized
3 6.6
theodolite
  • Specialized
1 9.9
tape measure
9 2.0

Surface Forms

tachymeter singular
tachymeters plural

Morphology

tachymeter = meter (opaque) = tachy + meter

Although the term is built from classical elements meaning 'fast' and 'measure', the combining form tachy- is not a transparent standalone English morpheme for most B1 learners.

Etymology

The word tachymeter comes from the Greek parts tachy- meaning 'fast' and -meter meaning 'measure', just like in speedometer. So a tachymeter is a tool to measure distance quickly, which is why surveyors use it.