尺度

• Pinyin: chǐ dù
• Hanzi breakdown: 尺 = ruler/foot (unit); 度 = degree/measure

Meaning

Scale; standard; degree; extent. A measure or criterion for evaluation.

Can refer to physical measurement scales, standards of judgment, or the degree/extent of something. In modern usage, often refers to the 'boldness' or explicitness of content (如电影尺度大 = the movie has explicit content).

Examples

1. 这部电影的尺度比较大，不适合儿童观看。 This movie is quite explicit and not suitable for children.
2. 评价一个人要用正确的尺度。 Use the right standards when evaluating a person.
3. 把握好说话的尺度很重要。 It's important to know the appropriate limits when speaking.

Usage Guide

Context: media, evaluation, communication

Tone: analytical

Do Say

• 开玩笑也要把握尺度。(Even joking should have limits.)
• 这个节目的尺度越来越大了。(This show's content is getting more and more explicit.)

Don't Say

• 用尺度量长度 (尺度 is abstract; for physical measuring, use 尺子 or 卷尺)

Origin & History

Compound of 尺 (ruler/foot measure) and 度 (degree/measure). Together they indicate standards of measurement.

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal