metrify: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Technical
Quick answer
What does “metrify” mean?
To convert into or use the metric system of measurement.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To convert into or use the metric system of measurement.
To compose in or put into poetic metre; to versify (archaic, less common meaning).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. Both nations use it primarily for the 'metrication' sense. The UK's earlier and more complete metrication might make it appear in historical contexts, while in the US it remains a topic of technical discussion.
Connotations
In both regions, it often connotes a formal, planned, and sometimes bureaucratic process of change.
Frequency
More frequent in UK English due to the historical process of metrication being a major public issue in the late 20th century. In US English, it is a very low-frequency, specialist term.
Grammar
How to Use “metrify” in a Sentence
[Government/Institution] + metrify + [system/industry/country] (transitive)[Country/Process] + metrify (intransitive)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “metrify” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The UK government metrified most weights and measures in the 1970s.
- British manufacturers had to metrify their technical drawings for European partners.
American English
- There has been periodic debate about whether the US should metrify its highway system.
- The scientific community in America largely metrified long ago.
adjective
British English
- The metrified speed limits were initially confusing to older drivers.
- A fully metrified curriculum for science teaching.
American English
- The project required metrified blueprints for international contractors.
- A metrified version of the recipe was published.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in manufacturing or international trade contexts when discussing standardization of measurements for export markets. 'The factory metrified its production specifications to comply with EU regulations.'
Academic
Found in papers on history of science, public policy, or engineering. 'The study analysed the economic impact of the decision to metrify the construction sector.'
Everyday
Extremely rare in casual conversation. Might be used in news reports or documentaries about historical change.
Technical
Core usage. Common in engineering, scientific, and policy documents concerning measurement standards. 'The new directive requires all member states to metrify road signs by 2030.'
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “metrify”
- Using 'metrify' to mean 'to measure' (correct: 'to metricate' or 'to take measurements').
- Confusing it with 'metricise' (to apply metrics/analytics).
- Spelling: 'metrify' not 'metricfy'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
They are synonyms. 'Metrify' is slightly less common but perfectly correct. 'Metricate' is often preferred in more formal technical writing.
Yes, but it is archaic. It means 'to put into poetic metre' or 'to versify'. This usage is very rare today and would only be found in specialized literary analysis.
No. It is a low-frequency, specialist term (C2 level). Most people would use phrases like 'convert to metric' or 'go metric' in everyday speech.
The process is 'metrication'. The state of being metric is 'being metricated' or 'having metrified'. 'Metrification' is also possible but less common than 'metrication'.
To convert into or use the metric system of measurement.
Metrify is usually formal, technical in register.
Metrify: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɛtrɪfaɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɛtrəˌfaɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'METRe' + 'IFY' (to make). To 'metrify' is to 'make something use metres' (and the whole metric system).
Conceptual Metaphor
SYSTEM IS A LANGUAGE: Metrifying is seen as translating an old 'language' of measurement (imperial) into a new, standardised one (metric).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary modern meaning of 'metrify'?