mete - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
mete Word Meanings
- to measure out something
- to distribute or apportion
- to inflict or impose (as in punishment)
mete Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
mete Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/miːt/
US
/miːt/
mete Word Etymology
Root: "mete" (Old English) = measure + "metan" (to measure). Historical Origin: Old English → Latin. Memory Image: Imagine a ruler measuring ingredients carefully, or a judge meting out justice with a gavel.
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
Mete is a somewhat archaic or formal verb meaning to measure out, to distribute or apportion, and to inflict or impose (as in punishment). In modern usage it usually appears in fixed phrases like mete out punishment or mete out justice, and it often takes a measureable object as its direct complement (mete out a portion, mete out sentences). The past tense is meted, as in 'the judge meted out a light sentence.' The word comes from Old English metan (to measure) and is historically linked to Latin influences; it is not common in everyday speech but shows up in legal, religious, or literary contexts. A vivid memory image is a ruler carefully measuring ingredients or a judge delivering justice with a gavel.
Usage Reminders
- Use with a direct object (mete out something).
- Past tense is meted.
- Mostly formal or literary; not for everyday talk.
- Common collocations: mete out punishment, mete out justice, mete out a portion.
- Prefer measure or distribute for neutral contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- Mete means 'to measure' in all contexts
- It is common in everyday speech
- It can replace 'measure' in any sentence
- Past tense is 'met' like meet
- It is used with uncountable amounts without an object
Thinking Differences
English speakers see mete as archaic or literary; learners often try to replace it with measure or distribute in casual speech.
Learning Tips
- Remember meted is the past tense of mete; irregular form.
- Pair mete with punishment or justice (mete out).
- Distinguish from measure in everyday contexts.
- Use with concrete objects: mete out a portion.
- Practice with legal/literary samples.
- Check the collocations in bilingual corpora.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'mete'?
A.Explore
B.Discover
C.Measure
D.Laugh
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'mete' used correctly?
A.The children meted with joy upon seeing their presents.
B.She tried to mete the distance between the two cities.
C.Let's mete at the park for a picnic.
D.He meted out punishment to the wrong person.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'mete'?
A.Ignore
B.Allocate
C.Combine
D.Hunt
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'mete'?
A.Exceed
B.Conceal
C.Consume
D.Deplete
Step 5: Mastery
How would you use 'mete' in a real-life context?
A.Watching a movie at home.
B.Cooking a meal with friends.
C.Playing a game of hide and seek.
D.Planning and meting out tasks for team members.
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