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B1 verb #4,000 most common 10 min read

测定

ceding Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 测定 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 测定 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you usually learn simple words for 'measuring' like '量' (liáng). However, you might see '测定' (cèdìng) in very basic science contexts or on product labels. Think of it as a 'big word' for 'finding out how much' of something there is using a tool. For example, '测定水温' (determining water temperature). At this level, you don't need to use it yourself, but recognize that when you see '测' (cè), it usually involves a tool or a test. The '定' (dìng) part means the result is fixed or decided. So, '测定' is 'testing to find a fixed result'. You can imagine a scientist with a thermometer. They are not just looking; they are '测定'-ing the temperature to write it down in a book. It is a formal way to say 'measure'.

By A2, you are starting to talk about more specific actions. '测定' (cèdìng) appears when you talk about health or the environment. You might hear a doctor say they need to '测定' your blood sugar. It's more formal than '检查' (jiǎnchá - check). At this level, you should notice that '测定' is usually followed by a 'quantity word' like '含量' (hánliàng - content) or '浓度' (nóngdù - concentration). You are moving beyond just 'measuring height' (量身高) to 'determining values' in a more professional way. You might see this word in short news clips about the weather or pollution levels. If the air is bad, the government will '测定' the PM2.5 level. It's an important word for understanding official information in China.

At the B1 level (your current level), '测定' (cèdìng) is a key vocabulary item. You are expected to use it in academic or professional discussions. You should understand the difference between '测量' (general measuring) and '测定' (scientific determination). At B1, you use '测定' to describe experiments, technical processes, or data analysis. For example, if you are writing a report about a science project, you would use '测定' to describe how you found the results. You should also be comfortable using it in the passive voice or as a noun. You will see it frequently in textbooks and professional manuals. It is the bridge between everyday Chinese and 'Scientific Chinese'. Mastering this word shows that you can handle formal, objective topics.

At the B2 level, you should be able to use '测定' (cèdìng) with precision in complex sentences. You will encounter it in specialized fields like archaeology (碳14测定 - carbon dating), engineering (强度测定 - strength testing), and economics (though less common there, it might appear in 'value determination' models). You should understand its collocations with adverbs like '精确' (jīngquè - precise) and '定量' (dìngliàng - quantitative). At this level, you might also compare '测定' with '判定' (pàndìng - to judge/determine) in a legal or logical context. You are not just 'measuring' anymore; you are 'determining' the fundamental properties of things. You can use this word to argue for the validity of data in a debate or a presentation.

For C1 learners, '测定' (cèdìng) is a standard tool in your linguistic arsenal. You should be able to appreciate its use in high-level scientific literature and official government white papers. You will notice how it is used to establish 'standards' (标准). At this level, you might see it used metaphorically in social sciences to describe the 'determination' of abstract values, though it remains primarily technical. You should be able to explain the nuances between '测定', '测算' (cèsuàn - to calculate/estimate), and '测评' (cèpíng - to evaluate/assess). Your use of '测定' should be flawless, appearing in the correct register (formal/technical) and paired with the appropriate technical objects.

At the C2 level, '测定' (cèdìng) is part of your mastery of formal and technical Chinese. You can use it to discuss the history of Chinese scientific terminology or the evolution of measurement standards. You understand the etymological roots of '测' and '定' and how they represent the blend of empirical observation and definitive conclusion. You can use the word in extremely formal contexts, such as drafting technical specifications or academic papers for publication in Chinese journals. You also recognize its presence in classical-style modern prose where scientific precision is required. At this level, '测定' is not just a vocabulary word; it's a precise instrument you use to convey authority and scientific rigor in your speech and writing.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

测定 in 30 Seconds

A formal verb for measuring scientific values.
Used in labs, medicine, and technical reports.
Combines 'measure' (测) and 'determine' (定).
Focuses on the precise result of a test.

The Chinese verb 测定 (cèdìng) is a sophisticated term primarily used in scientific, technical, and formal contexts to describe the process of determining a specific value, quantity, or characteristic through rigorous measurement or testing. Unlike the simpler verb 量 (liáng) which might be used for measuring height or length in a casual setting, 测定 implies a systematic approach, often involving instruments, laboratory protocols, or mathematical calculations. It combines the concepts of 测 (cè), meaning to survey or measure, and 定 (dìng), meaning to fix, settle, or determine. This combination suggests that the action is not just about observing a number, but about establishing a definitive fact or value that was previously unknown or uncertain.

Scientific Precision: In chemistry, physics, and biology, this word is the standard for reporting the results of experiments. For instance, determining the pH level of a solution or the carbon-14 age of an artifact. It suggests a high degree of accuracy and professional methodology.
Geological and Environmental Contexts: When talking about environmental monitoring, such as measuring air quality (PM2.5 levels) or water pollution, 测定 is used to describe the official monitoring process. It carries the weight of authority and empirical evidence.
Technical Standards: Engineering and manufacturing rely on this term when testing the strength of materials or the efficiency of a new engine. It is about reaching a conclusion based on data.

科学家们正在实验室里测定这种新材料的硬度。(Scientists are determining the hardness of this new material in the laboratory.)

Understanding the nuance of 测定 requires recognizing that it is a 'result-oriented' measurement. While 测量 (cèliáng) focuses on the physical act of using a ruler or a tool, 测定 focuses on the final 'determination' of the value. If you are just taking measurements, you are 测量; if you are calculating the final density or chemical composition based on those measurements, you are 测定. This makes it a crucial word for university students, researchers, and anyone working in a technical field in China.

通过放射性碳定年法，我们可以测定古物的年代。(Through radiocarbon dating, we can determine the age of ancient artifacts.)

In the modern world, 测定 is also frequently seen in health and fitness contexts, specifically regarding medical tests. Blood sugar levels, cholesterol counts, and DNA sequencing all fall under the umbrella of 测定. It implies that the test is not just a casual glance but a procedure involving reagents, specialized equipment, and a formal report. As China continues to lead in various scientific sectors, mastering this word allows a learner to engage with academic papers, news reports on technology, and professional discussions with precision.

医生建议对病人的血糖水平进行定期测定。(The doctor suggests regular determination/measurement of the patient's blood sugar levels.)

Using 测定 (cèdìng) correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a transitive verb. It almost always requires a specific object—the thing being determined or measured. This object is typically a scientific property, a numerical value, or a chemical state. You won't usually find 测定 being used with people as the direct object, but rather with an attribute of that person or an object.

The [Subject] + [测定] + [Object] Pattern: This is the most common structure. The subject is usually a person (scientist, technician) or an organization (laboratory, institute). The object is the variable. Example: '实验室测定了样品的纯度' (The lab determined the purity of the sample).
Passive Voice with [被]: In formal reports, you might see the passive construction. Example: '大气的含氧量被准确地测定了' (The oxygen content of the atmosphere was accurately determined).
As a Noun (Nominalization): Sometimes 测定 acts as a noun, meaning 'the determination' or 'the measurement'. Example: '测定的结果非常令人惊讶' (The results of the determination were very surprising).

我们需要测定这块土地的酸碱度，才能决定种什么。(We need to determine the pH of this land before we can decide what to plant.)

A key aspect of using 测定 is its association with adverbs that emphasize precision. Adverbs like 准确地 (zhǔnquè de - accurately), 精确地 (jīngquè de - precisely), or 初步 (chūbù - preliminarily) are frequently paired with it. This highlights the scientific nature of the word. For example, '初步测定' (preliminary determination) is a common phrase in news reports following an earthquake or a chemical spill, where initial data is being gathered.

技术人员正在测定机器运行时的噪音水平。(Technicians are measuring the noise level of the machine while it's running.)

In professional writing, you will often see 测定 followed by abstract nouns related to physics or chemistry. Common objects include 含量 (hánliàng - content), 浓度 (nóngdù - concentration), 速度 (sùdù - speed/velocity), 温度 (wēndù - temperature), and 距离 (jùlí - distance). Note that while '量温度' (liáng wēndù) is fine for checking if you have a fever, '测定温度' (cèdìng wēndù) would be used if you are determining the boiling point of a specific chemical compound in a controlled environment.

You are likely to encounter 测定 (cèdìng) in a variety of high-stakes environments. It is not a 'street' word that you would use while haggling at a market, but it is ubiquitous in the media and professional life. Understanding its context helps you recognize the tone of the conversation—usually one of objectivity and expertise.

News and Media Reports: Whenever there is a report on environmental protection, you will hear it. '环保局对河流水质进行了测定' (The Environmental Protection Bureau conducted a determination of the river's water quality). This usage signals that the information is based on scientific data rather than just opinion.
Academic and Educational Settings: In Chinese universities, especially in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) departments, students use 测定 in every lab report. It's the standard verb for the 'Procedure' and 'Results' sections of a thesis.
Hospitals and Medical Centers: When a doctor orders a complex test, the laboratory report will use 测定. For example, '激素水平测定' (Hormone level determination). It sounds much more professional than just 'checking' (检查).

根据最新的测定结果，该地区的空气质量已达标。(According to the latest determination results, the air quality in this area has met the standard.)

Beyond the lab, 测定 is used in the sports world, specifically in high-performance athletics. Coaches might 测定 an athlete's maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max) or body fat percentage. In this context, it implies a level of sports science that goes beyond a simple stopwatch. Similarly, in the food industry, 测定 is used to label nutritional content, such as the amount of protein or fat per serving. When you read the back of a Chinese food package, you are seeing the results of various 测定 processes.

这种仪器的主要功能是测定金属的导电性。(The main function of this instrument is to determine the electrical conductivity of metals.)

Finally, in the realm of archaeology and history, 测定 is the go-to word for dating artifacts. '碳14测定' (Carbon-14 dating) is a term every Chinese high school student learns. It emphasizes that history is not just stories, but a science that can be measured and proven. So, whether you are watching a documentary on CCTV-10 (the science and education channel) or reading a technical manual, 测定 is the key that unlocks the world of Chinese empirical knowledge.

Because 测定 (cèdìng) is often translated as 'measure' or 'determine' in English, many learners use it in situations where it sounds overly formal or technically incorrect. Avoiding these pitfalls will make your Chinese sound more natural and precise.

Confusing with 决定 (juédìng - to decide): While both words contain '定' (to fix/settle), 测定 is about finding an existing physical value, while 决定 is about making a choice or a plan. You cannot '测定' to go to a movie; you '决定' to go to a movie.
Overusing in Casual Contexts: If you are measuring your waist for a new pair of pants, do not use 测定. Use 量 (liáng). Using 测定 for clothes makes it sound like you are performing a laboratory experiment on your trousers.
Incorrect Object Pairing: You '测定' properties, not people. You don't '测定一个学生' (determine a student). You might '测定一个学生的智商' (determine a student's IQ), but even then, '测试' (test) might be more common for psychological traits.

Incorrect: 我想测定我的身高。(I want to 'determine' my height [via scientific method].)
Correct: 我想量一下身高。(I want to measure my height.)

Another common error is failing to distinguish between 测定 and 测量 (cèliáng). 测量 is a broader term for the act of measuring. 测定 is specifically about the result of that measurement being used to define a state. For example, a surveyor 测量 land (measuring boundaries), but a chemist 测定 the concentration of a chemical (determining a specific value). If the focus is on the action and the tools, use 测量; if the focus is on the specific data point or conclusion, use 测定.

Finally, remember that 测定 is a 'hard' science word. Using it for 'soft' things like 'determining the mood of the room' is a metaphorical stretch that usually doesn't work in Chinese. Stick to things you can put in a beaker, under a microscope, or through a computer algorithm for data analysis. By keeping 测定 in its professional lane, you ensure your language remains precise and appropriate for the context.

To truly master 测定 (cèdìng), you must see how it fits into the family of 'measuring' and 'determining' words in Chinese. Each has a specific 'flavor' and use case. Choosing the right one is the difference between sounding like a beginner and sounding like a native speaker.

测量 (cèliáng) vs. 测定 (cèdìng): 测量 is general 'measuring' (length, area, volume). It focuses on the process. 测定 is about 'determining' a specific quality or value, often requiring analysis. You 测量 the size of a room, but you 测定 the level of radiation in the room.
测试 (cèshì) vs. 测定 (cèdìng): 测试 is 'to test' or 'to trial'. It's used for software, machinery performance, or human abilities. 测定 is for quantitative data. You 测试 a new car's safety, but you 测定 its fuel consumption rate.
确定 (quèdìng) vs. 测定 (cèdìng): 确定 means 'to confirm' or 'to be sure'. It is often used for plans or facts. '我们确定了开会的时间' (We confirmed the meeting time). 测定 always involves some kind of measurement or scientific test.
测验 (cèyàn) vs. 测定 (cèdìng): 测验 is almost exclusively used for 'quizzes' or 'exams' in a school setting, or psychological 'tests'. It is much less technical than 测定.

虽然我们可以测量(cèliáng)这座山的各种数据，但要测定(cèdìng)它的准确年龄，还需要更复杂的设备。(Although we can measure various data of this mountain, to determine its exact age, we need more complex equipment.)

When you are looking for an alternative, consider the level of formality. In a casual conversation, if you are just checking something, 查 (chá) or 看 (kàn) might suffice. '查一下体温' (Check the body temperature). In a professional report, 测定 is the superior choice. If you are discussing the 'determination' of a cause in a non-scientific way (like a cause of death or a cause of a problem), you might use 判定 (pàndìng - to judge/determine) or 认定 (rèndìng - to maintain/identify). These carry a more judicial or subjective weight, whereas 测定 remains firmly rooted in the physical and measurable world.

In summary, 测定 is your 'scientific determine'. It is the word of the lab, the monitor, and the precise calculation. By understanding its neighbors, you can navigate the complex landscape of Chinese verbs for 'finding things out' with confidence and accuracy.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character '测' contains the 'rule' or 'law' component (则), which historically referred to the bronze vessels used to record laws. This highlights the connection between measurement and legal/social standards in ancient China.

Pronunciation Guide

UK tsʰɤ̂ tîŋ

US tsʰɤ̂ tîŋ

In Chinese, both syllables carry equal weight, but because both are 4th tone (falling), they sound punchy and emphatic.

Rhymes With

策 (cè) 册 (cè) 定 (dìng) 订 (dìng) 政 (zhèng) 性 (xìng) 命 (mìng) 硬 (yìng)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ce' as 'se' (like 'sell'). It must have a 't' sound at the start.
Pronouncing 'ding' with a flat 1st tone instead of a sharp 4th tone.
Confusing 'ce' with 'che' (which has a 'ch' sound).
Mixing up the tones, making it sound like 'ce' (1st) 'ding' (1st).
Failing to aspirate the 'c' in 'ce'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The characters are relatively simple, but the contexts (science/tech) can be dense.

Writing 4/5

Writing '测' requires attention to detail with the radicals.

Speaking 3/5

The 4th-4th tone combination requires strong breath support.

Listening 3/5

Must distinguish from '测量' and '测试' in fast speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

量 (liáng) 水 (shuǐ) 度 (dù) 定 (dìng) 试 (shì)

Learn Next

检测 (jiǎncè) 鉴定 (jiàndìng) 评估 (pínggū) 分析 (fēnxī) 指标 (zhǐbiāo)

Advanced

放射性碳定年法 (Radiocarbon dating) 光谱分析 (Spectral analysis) 定量分析 (Quantitative analysis) 定性分析 (Qualitative analysis) 不确定度 (Uncertainty)

Grammar to Know

Resultative Complements

测定出 (Determine out/successfully find the result).

Passive with '被'

含量被精确地测定了 (The content was precisely determined).

Adverbial Placement

正在测定 (Currently determining).

Nominalization

测定的重要性 (The importance of determination).

Serial Verb Construction

用仪器测定 (Use an instrument to determine).

Examples by Level

我们要测定水的温度。

We want to determine the water temperature.

Simple Subject + Verb + Object structure.

医生测定我的血糖。

The doctor determines my blood sugar.

Using '测定' for medical values.

请测定一下这个盒子的重量。

Please determine the weight of this box.

A formal way to ask for measurement.

科学家测定空气质量。

Scientists determine air quality.

Professional subject '科学家'.

他在实验室测定金属。

He is determining the properties of metal in the lab.

Location '在实验室' comes before the verb.

测定结果是准确的。

The determination result is accurate.

Here '测定' acts as an adjective/modifier for '结果'.

老师教我们如何测定酸度。

The teacher teaches us how to determine acidity.

'如何' (how to) + Verb phrase.

这个机器可以自动测定。

This machine can determine (it) automatically.

Adverb '自动' (automatically) before the verb.

我们需要测定这种药的成分。

We need to determine the ingredients of this medicine.

'成分' (ingredients/components) is a common object.

技术员正在测定电池的寿命。

The technician is determining the battery life.

Continuous action with '正在'.

这个仪器的作用是测定风速。

The function of this instrument is to determine wind speed.

Noun phrase '...的作用是' + Verb phrase.

通过测定，我们发现了问题。

Through determination, we discovered the problem.

'通过' (through) + Noun form of the word.

他们测定了湖水的深度。

They determined the depth of the lake.

Completed action with '了'.

这种方法可以测定含盐量。

This method can determine the salt content.

Modal verb '可以' (can) indicating capability.

我们要精确地测定距离。

We need to precisely determine the distance.

Adverb '精确地' (precisely) adds technical flavor.

实验室正在进行成分测定。

The lab is conducting a component determination.

Using '进行' (to conduct) + Noun phrase.

研究人员正在测定该物质的熔点。

Researchers are determining the melting point of the substance.

'熔点' (melting point) is a specific scientific term.

我们需要测定土壤中的重金属含量。

We need to determine the heavy metal content in the soil.

Complex object: '土壤中的重金属含量'.

该实验旨在测定光合作用的速度。

The experiment aims to determine the rate of photosynthesis.

'旨在' (aims to) is a formal B1-level structure.

测定结果表明，该产品符合标准。

The determination results show that the product meets the standard.

'表明' (to show/indicate) introduces a clause.

为了安全，必须定期测定辐射水平。

For safety, radiation levels must be determined regularly.

Adverbial of purpose '为了安全' at the start.

他们采用新方法测定了蛋白质结构。

They used a new method to determine the protein structure.

'采用' (to adopt/use) + Method + Verb.

该仪器能测定极小范围内的压力变化。

The instrument can determine pressure changes within a tiny range.

'极小范围内' (within a tiny range) as a modifier.

通过对样本的测定，得出了结论。

Through the determination of the samples, a conclusion was reached.

'对...的测定' (the determination of...).

科学家利用放射性同位素测定文物的年代。

Scientists use radioactive isotopes to determine the age of cultural relics.

Instrumental construction: '利用...测定...'.

这项研究精确地测定了星系间的距离。

This research precisely determined the distance between galaxies.

Formal research context.

我们需要测定这种新型燃料的燃烧效率。

We need to determine the combustion efficiency of this new type of fuel.

'燃烧效率' (combustion efficiency) is a technical compound.

测定过程必须严格遵循实验室准则。

The determination process must strictly follow laboratory guidelines.

'遵循' (to follow/adhere to) is a B2 verb.

专家们正在测定地震引发的地壳运动。

Experts are determining the crustal movement caused by the earthquake.

Complex cause-and-effect object.

该软件可以根据算法测定用户的偏好。

The software can determine user preferences based on algorithms.

Abstract use in technology/data science.

初步测定显示，该物质具有高度毒性。

Preliminary determination shows that the substance is highly toxic.

'初步' (preliminary) is a common modifier.

由于误差较大，我们需要重新进行测定。

Due to a large error, we need to perform the determination again.

'由于' (due to) introducing a reason.

该论文详细描述了测定分子质量的实验步骤。

The paper describes in detail the experimental steps for determining molecular mass.

High-level academic structure.

精确测定重力加速度对物理学研究至关重要。

Precisely determining the acceleration of gravity is crucial for physics research.

'至关重要' (crucial/vital) is a C1 idiom.

通过光谱分析，科学家测定了恒星的化学组成。

Through spectral analysis, scientists determined the chemical composition of stars.

Specialized scientific method '光谱分析'.

测定结果的偏差可能源于仪器的老化。

The deviation in the determination results may stem from the aging of the instrument.

'源于' (to stem from/originate from).

在测定过程中，温度的微小波动都会影响精度。

During the determination process, even slight fluctuations in temperature will affect precision.

'微小波动' (slight fluctuations).

法律规定必须对排放的废气进行成分测定。

The law stipulates that the composition of emitted exhaust gases must be determined.

'法律规定' (the law stipulates).

该技术实现了对单个细胞活性的实时测定。

This technology has achieved real-time determination of single-cell activity.

'实现了对...的...测定'.

测定值与理论值之间存在显著差异。

There is a significant difference between the determined value and the theoretical value.

'显著差异' (significant difference).

对宇宙微波背景辐射的精确测定，为大爆炸理论提供了有力证据。

The precise determination of the cosmic microwave background radiation provided strong evidence for the Big Bang theory.

Extremely formal academic/scientific sentence.

测定工作不仅需要先进的设备，更需要严谨的科学态度。

Determination work requires not only advanced equipment but also a rigorous scientific attitude.

'不仅...更...' structure for emphasis.

在地质年代学中，测定岩石绝对年龄的方法多种多样。

In geochronology, the methods for determining the absolute age of rocks are diverse.

Domain-specific terminology '地质年代学'.

该研究旨在通过测定同位素比值来追踪污染源。

The study aims to track pollution sources by determining isotope ratios.

Methodological '通过...来...'.

实验误差的修正对于确保测定结果的可靠性至关重要。

The correction of experimental errors is vital for ensuring the reliability of determination results.

Noun-heavy formal style.

该仪器采用了激光干涉技术，大大提高了测定的灵敏度。

The instrument adopts laser interference technology, greatly improving the sensitivity of the determination.

Technical '大大提高了' (greatly improved).

对生理指标的动态测定有助于深入理解生命过程。

Dynamic determination of physiological indicators helps to deeply understand life processes.

'动态测定' (dynamic determination).

测定结论的得出标志着该研究取得了阶段性进展。

The derivation of the determination conclusion marks a phased progress in the research.

'标志着' (marks/signifies).

Synonyms

测量确定化验评估检测

Antonyms

推测估计

Common Collocations

测定含量

测定浓度

测定年代

测定硬度

测定距离

测定速度

测定位置

初步测定

精确测定

自动测定

Common Phrases

碳14测定

— Carbon-14 dating. A method used to determine the age of organic materials.

科学家通过碳14测定发现了古墓的秘密。

血糖测定

— Blood sugar determination. A medical test to find the level of glucose in blood.

他每天早上都要进行血糖测定。

水质测定

— Water quality determination. Testing the chemical and biological state of water.

政府加强了对河流的水质测定。

含量测定

— Content determination. Finding the amount of a substance within a mixture.

药品说明书上有详细的含量测定数据。

成分测定

— Component determination. Analyzing what parts make up a whole.

这种新型合金需要进行成分测定。

硬度测定

— Hardness determination. Testing how resistant a material is to being deformed.

硬度测定是金属加工的重要环节。

放射性测定

— Radioactive determination. Measuring the level of radioactivity.

在核电站周围进行放射性测定非常重要。

浓度测定

— Concentration determination. Measuring the ratio of a solute in a solution.

化学实验的第一步是浓度测定。

灵敏度测定

— Sensitivity determination. Testing how a system responds to small signals.

我们要对传感器的灵敏度进行测定。

测定方法

— Determination method. The specific technique used to measure something.

这种新的测定方法既快又准。

Often Confused With

测定 vs 决定 (juédìng)

决定 means 'to decide' (subjective choice), while 测定 means 'to determine' (objective measurement).

测定 vs 测量 (cèliáng)

测量 is the physical act of measuring dimensions; 测定 is the analysis to find a specific value or property.

测定 vs 测试 (cèshì)

测试 is 'to test' performance or skills; 测定 is 'to determine' quantitative data.

Idioms & Expressions

"测定年代"

— Literally 'to determine the era', used specifically in archaeology.

这件文物的年代已经通过科学方法测定。

Technical

"尘埃落定"

— The dust has settled. While not using '测', it uses '定' to show a final result, similar to the '定' in '测定'.

经过长时间的测定，结果终于尘埃落定。

Literary

"以此类推"

— And so on / based on this. Often used after explaining a determination method.

测定了第一个样本后，其余样本以此类推。

Neutral

"实事求是"

— To seek truth from facts. The guiding principle behind scientific '测定'.

测定工作必须坚持实事求是的原则。

Formal

"毫厘不爽"

— Not a hair's breadth of error. Used to describe a very accurate '测定'.

这次测定的结果毫厘不爽。

Literary

"一丝不苟"

— Meticulous; not a single detail is overlooked. Describes the attitude during '测定'.

他测定数据时一丝不苟。

Neutral

"有据可查"

— Backed by evidence. The result of a '测定' makes a fact '有据可查'.

测定结果是有据可查的。

Formal

"一清二楚"

— Crystal clear. After '测定', the data should be '一清二楚'.

测定后，成分变得一清二楚。

Colloquial

"名副其实"

— Worthy of the name. Used when a '测定' confirms a product's claims.

测定证明这种金子是名副其实的。

Neutral

"因地制宜"

— Suit measures to local conditions. Choosing the right '测定' method for the location.

我们要因地制宜地选择测定方法。

Formal

Easily Confused

测定 vs 判定

Both mean 'determine'.

判定 is usually based on judgment or rules (like a referee), while 测定 is based on scientific data.

裁判判定球出界了 (The referee determined the ball was out).

测定 vs 认定

Both involve 'fixing' a result.

认定 is often used in legal or official identification contexts (like identifying a suspect).

警方认定了嫌疑人 (The police identified the suspect).

测定 vs 测算

Both involve 'measuring' and 'calculating'.

测算 focuses more on the calculation and estimation process, often for future projections.

我们要测算明年的预算 (We need to estimate next year's budget).

测定 vs 检测

Both are used in labs.

检测 focuses on detecting if something exists (yes/no), while 测定 focuses on 'how much' (quantity).

检测是否有病毒 (Detect if there is a virus).

测定 vs 量

The basic word for measure.

量 is casual and used for simple things like height or volume at home.

量一下体温 (Measure the temperature).

Sentence Patterns

我想测定 [名词]。

我想测定水温。

这个仪器可以测定 [名词]。

这个仪器可以测定风速。

[人] 正在测定 [名词] 的 [属性]。

科学家正在测定样品的纯度。

通过 [方法]，我们可以测定 [名词]。

通过碳14测定，我们可以测定古物的年代。

测定 [名词] 对 [研究] 至关重要。

测定重力加速度对物理学研究至关重要。

对 [名词] 的精确测定标志着 [进展]。

对宇宙辐射的精确测定标志着研究的重大进展。

[名词] 被 [副词] 测定了。

血糖被准确地测定了。

初步测定显示 [从句]。

初步测定显示水质已经达标。

Word Family

Nouns

测定值 (determined value)

测定仪 (measuring instrument)

测定法 (method of determination)

Verbs

测 (to measure/survey)

定 (to fix/decide)

测量 (to measure)

测试 (to test)

Adjectives

可测定的 (measurable/determinable)

已测定的 (already determined)

探测 (to probe/explore)

预测 (to predict)

核定 (to check and ratify)

鉴定 (to appraise/identify)

认定 (to maintain/identify)

How to Use It

frequency

High in academic and professional contexts; low in daily casual speech.

Common Mistakes

Using 测定 for height/weight in daily life. → 量身高 / 称体重
测定 is too formal and technical for checking how tall you are at home.
Confusing 测定 with 决定 to mean 'decide'. → 我决定去北京。
You cannot '测定' to go to a city. 测定 is for data, 决定 is for choices.
Using 测定 for software bugs. → 测试软件
For software and performance, '测试' (test) is the correct term.
Incorrect tone: Pronouncing it 1st-1st tone. → cèdìng (4th-4th)
Incorrect tones can make the word unrecognizable in a technical context.
Using 测定 for 'judging' a person's character. → 评价 / 判定
测定 is for physical properties, not human personality traits.

Tips

Use with 'Content'

Whenever you see '含量' (content), the verb '测定' is almost always the perfect partner. '测定维生素含量' (Determine vitamin content).

Pair with '进行'

To sound more like a researcher, say '进行...测定'. For example: '对土壤进行测定' instead of just '测定土壤'.

Tone Mastery

Both characters are 4th tone. Practice them with a sharp, downward movement of your head or hand to get the emphasis right.

Workplace Usage

If you work in QA (Quality Assurance), use '测定' to discuss the specifications of materials.

Scientific Papers

In the 'Methodology' section of a paper, '测定' is the standard verb for any data collection via instruments.

News Keywords

In Chinese news, when you hear '测定', pay attention—the next few words are usually the most important data point of the story.

测定 vs 测量

If you are measuring a box's size, use 测量. If you are measuring the box's chemical purity, use 测定.

Fixed Results

Focus on the '定' (fixed/determined). It means the measurement has reached a final, solid conclusion.

Modern China

This word is a hallmark of 'New China'—focusing on science, technology, and verifiable facts.

HSK 5/6

While B1, this word is very common in higher HSK levels. Learning it early gives you a head start on formal reading passages.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Ce' as 'Celsius' (measuring temperature) and 'Ding' as 'Deciding' the final number. You 'Ce-Ding' the temperature of a chemical.

Visual Association

Imagine a scientist in a white lab coat holding a beaker. They are looking at a digital screen that flashes a final, fixed number. That finality is the '定' (ding) in '测定'.

Word Web

实验室 (Lab) 数据 (Data) 精确 (Precise) 化学 (Chemistry) 含量 (Content) 结果 (Result) 仪器 (Instrument) 标准 (Standard)

Challenge

Try to find three things in your kitchen that have a '测定' result on the label (like fat content or vitamin levels) and say the Chinese sentence for each.

Word Origin

The word '测定' is a compound of two ancient characters. '测' (cè) originally meant to use a tool to measure the depth of water, combining the 'water' radical with 'rule/standard'. '定' (dìng) originally depicted a foot under a roof, signifying being settled or stable. Together, they form the modern scientific meaning.

Original meaning: To measure and fix a value.

Sino-Tibetan (Chinese)

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but avoid using it to 'determine' or 'evaluate' people's character, as it sounds dehumanizing and overly clinical.

English speakers often use 'measure' for everything. In Chinese, you must be more specific. '测定' is the 'Measure' that requires a PhD or a expensive machine.

CCTV-10 (Science and Education Channel) uses this word daily. Chinese Academic Journals (CNKI) have millions of articles with '测定' in the title. Standard National Standards (GB Standards) in China use '测定' to define safety levels.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Chemistry Laboratory

测定溶液pH值
测定反应速度
测定纯度
测定分子量

Environmental Monitoring

测定空气质量
测定噪音分贝
测定水污染
测定土壤成分

Medical Testing

测定心率
测定激素水平
测定血脂
测定视力

Archaeology

测定古物年代
测定骨骼年龄
测定地层深度
测定成分来源

Industrial Quality Control

测定压力极限
测定导电性
测定耐磨损度
测定使用寿命

Conversation Starters

"你最近在实验室里测定什么项目？ (What project are you determining/measuring in the lab lately?)"

"这种新产品的营养成分测定了吗？ (Have the nutritional components of this new product been determined?)"

"我们该用什么方法来测定这个样本？ (What method should we use to determine this sample?)"

"你觉得这次测定的结果准确吗？ (Do you think the results of this determination are accurate?)"

"测定空气质量的仪器坏了，怎么办？ (The instrument for determining air quality is broken, what should we do?)"

Journal Prompts

描述一次你参与过的科学实验，并详细说明你测定了哪些数据。 (Describe a science experiment you participated in and explain in detail what data you determined.)

为什么在科学研究中，精确的测定是如此重要？ (Why is precise determination so important in scientific research?)

如果你可以测定宇宙中的任何东西，你会选择测定什么？ (If you could determine anything in the universe, what would you choose to determine?)

讨论一下现代技术如何改变了我们测定时间的方法。 (Discuss how modern technology has changed the way we determine time.)

写一段关于未来城市如何自动测定并管理环境污染的设想。 (Write a vision of how future cities will automatically determine and manage environmental pollution.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, that would sound very strange. Use '量身高' (liáng shēngāo) instead. 测定 is for scientific properties like density or chemical content.

It can be both. As a verb: '我们要测定水质'. As a noun: '测定的结果很准确'.

The most common objects are '含量' (content), '浓度' (concentration), and '年代' (age).

No, use '制定计划' (zhìdìng jìhuà - formulate a plan) or '决定计划' (decide a plan).

Yes, for high-level physiological stats like '测定最大摄氧量' (determining VO2 max).

测量 is about the action of measuring (like using a ruler). 测定 is about the conclusion/determination of a value (like using a lab test).

Yes, '这个系统能自动测定油耗' (This system can automatically determine fuel consumption).

Yes, it is a very formal and professional word. You won't hear it much in casual slang.

It is '碳14测定' (tàn shísì cèdìng).

Generally, no. It is for physical and chemical properties. Using it for 'love' would sound like a joke about a 'love-measuring machine'.