Words / C1

GAYJ/ɡeɪdʒ/

To gauge is to measure or judge a level: gauge interest, gauge how much. Measure is everyday and often uses a tool; gauge is frequently an estimate of mood, risk, or understanding. A gauge (noun) is also a measuring instrument or a scale (a pressure gauge, narrow gauge). Do not write gauge for a wild guess with no look at the evidence.

Meaning

To measure or judge the amount, level, or nature of something.

Examples

• “A short quiz helped her gauge how much the class had understood.”
• “A two-item quiz gauged whether the new notation had landed.”
• “You can gauge the room from the silence; you still need the numbers for the minutes.”

Good to know

Judge/measure a level. Noun: a gauge (instrument / scale). Everyday: measure. Not a guess with eyes closed.

Near in meaning

measure

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