centigram: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “centigram” mean?
A metric unit of mass equal to one hundredth of a gram.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A metric unit of mass equal to one hundredth of a gram.
In scientific contexts, a precise measurement of very small mass. Also used metonymically to represent extreme precision or minute quantities.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or usage differences; spelling is consistent. In both regions, 'gram' is the base spelling (not 'gramme' in modern scientific use).
Connotations
Identical connotations of precision and scientific measurement in both dialects.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both dialects outside specific technical fields.
Grammar
How to Use “centigram” in a Sentence
a [number] centigram(s) of [substance]weighing [number] centigramsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “centigram” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The recipe required us to centigram the saffron precisely.
- They had to centigram the powder for the experiment.
American English
- The lab tech will centigram the compound for accuracy.
- We need to centigram each sample individually.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used. Might appear in specifications for pharmaceuticals or precious materials.
Academic
Common in scientific papers, lab reports, and chemistry/pharmacology textbooks.
Everyday
Virtually never used; grams or milligrams are more common references.
Technical
Standard unit in metrology, analytical chemistry, and formulation science.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “centigram”
- Misspelling as 'centigramme' (archaic), 'sentigram'. Confusing it with 'centigrade' (temperature). Incorrect plural: 'centigrams' is standard.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a specialist term. In most practical situations, milligrams (1/1000 of a gram) or grams are used.
The standard abbreviation is 'cg'.
A centigram (0.01 g) is larger than a milligram (0.001 g). There are 10 milligrams in one centigram.
It would sound unusually technical. Saying 'a hundredth of a gram' or 'a tiny amount' would be more natural for general communication.
A metric unit of mass equal to one hundredth of a gram.
Centigram is usually technical/scientific in register.
Centigram: in British English it is pronounced /ˈsentɪɡram/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈsentəɡræm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Not every centigram counts (idiomatic for extreme precision being unnecessary)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'cent' (like 1/100 of a dollar) + 'gram' (unit of weight). A centigram is one penny's worth of a gram.
Conceptual Metaphor
PRECISION IS MEASURED IN TINY UNITS; SMALL AMOUNTS ARE FRACTIONS.
Practice
Quiz
In which context are you most likely to encounter the unit 'centigram'?