gemessen
measured
Describes a movement or way of speaking that is deliberately slow, controlled, and dignified.
EXAMPLE
Mit gemessenen Schritten betrat der Richter den Gerichtssaal.
With measured steps, the judge entered the courtroom.
gemessen
measured
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Meanings
gemessen an
measured against
A construction that expresses a comparison; in relation to or compared with something.
EXAMPLE
Gemessen an den hohen Erwartungen war das Ergebnis eine Enttäuschung.
Measured against the high expectations, the result was a disappointment.
Usage tips
Word structure
'Gemessen' is the past participle of the verb 'messen' (to measure). The meaning 'slow and controlled' derives from the idea that the movements or words are precisely measured out.
EXAMPLE
Er wählte seine Worte sehr gemessen, um niemanden zu verletzen.
He chose his words very measuredly so as not to hurt anyone.
Typical collocations
In the meaning 'slow and controlled', 'gemessen' (measured) is used almost exclusively with nouns for movement or speech, e.g. 'gemessene Schritte' (measured steps), 'gemessene Bewegungen' (measured movements), or 'gemessene Worte' (measured words).
EXAMPLE
Der Redner sprach mit gemessener Stimme zum Publikum.
The speaker addressed the audience in a measured voice.
Fixed construction
The construction 'gemessen an' + dative is a fixed expression used to express a comparison. If it appears at the beginning of the sentence, the verb follows immediately after it.
EXAMPLE
Gemessen an seiner Erfahrung ist sein Gehalt zu niedrig.
Measured against his experience, his salary is too low.
Context clue
The meaning is easy to recognize from context: if 'gemessen' (measured) comes before a noun like 'Schritte' (steps) or 'Worte' (words), it means 'slow/controlled'. If the preposition 'an' follows, it is a comparison.
EXAMPLE
Mit gemessenen Schritten verließ er den Raum.
With measured steps, he left the room.
Compare with
gemessen vs getragen
solemn / supported / used
Getragen and gemessen can both describe a slow, dignified way of speaking. Getragen also emphasizes a solemn, serious tone, while gemessen focuses more strongly on the controlled and restrained manner of delivery.
gemessen
In der angespannten Sitzung sprach sie mit gemessener Stimme über die Vorwürfe.
During the tense meeting, she spoke about the allegations in a measured voice.
getragen
Bei der Gedenkfeier sprach sie mit getragener Stimme über die Verstorbenen.
At the memorial service, she spoke about the deceased in a solemn voice.
In real life
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