commensurate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
commensurate Word Meanings
- equal in measure or extent
- corresponding in degree or size
- proportionate
commensurate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
commensurate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəˈmɛnʃərɪt/
US
/kəˈmɛnʃərɪt/
commensurate Word Etymology
com- = together + mensura = measure; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine two people measuring a distance with a ruler, ensuring their measurements perfectly match as they work side by side.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Commensurate describes something that is in proper proportion or corresponds in degree to something else. In English you often say that pay should be commensurate with experience, or that penalties should be commensurate with the seriousness of the offense. It is commonly used with the preposition with: commensurate with, or less commonly to. The word carries a sense of fairness and balance, implying that two quantities match in scale or value. Learners should avoid using commensurate as a synonym for 'approximately' or 'equal in size' without the right pairing; instead, think of matching scales, not just similar size. It can also appear in formal or academic writing.
Usage Reminders
- - Use commensurate with to link two quantities that should match in scale or degree.
- - Pair with nouns like experience, effort, or severity to show proportionality.
- - It is more formal than everyday words like 'equal' or 'same size'.
- - Do not use with objects that are not easily measured or compared scale-wise.
- - In policy or salary language, commensurate with is a common, clear choice.
Common Misconceptions
- It means exactly equal in size with no context.
- It can mean approximately or roughly the same.
- It can be used with any preposition (to, with, at) interchangeably.
- It only applies to monetary amounts.
- It is informal slang.
Thinking Differences
In English, commensurate signals a precise sense of proportionality between two quantities, often used in formal policy or compensation contexts; learners should avoid treating it as merely 'similar' or 'equal' and remember it needs a matching target (with).
Learning Tips
- memorize common collocations: commensurate with experience, commensurate with severity.
- differentiate commensurate from 'equal' or 'approximately'.
- practice with formal contexts: salaries, penalties, responsibilities.
- check the object being compared to ensure proportional meaning.
- prefer 'commensurate with' over 'commensurate to' in most modern usage.
- review synonyms like proportionate and corresponding to for nuance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'commensurate'?
A.Able
B.Equal
C.Bright
D.Fast
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'commensurate' used correctly?
A.The sky was commensurate with stars.
B.She ran commensurate the track record.
C.Their idea was commensurate in the meeting.
D.He paid a commensurate amount for the service.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'commensurate'?
A.Inadequate
B.Proportional
C.Excessive
D.Limited
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'commensurate'?
A.Commensurable
B.Comparable
C.Incommensurable
D.Equitable
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you use the word 'commensurate'?
A.Negotiating a salary based on experience
B.Picking a flower in a garden
C.Choosing a new book to read
D.Cooking a new recipe
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