metric system

[ˈmɛtrɪk ˈsɪstəm]
nounpl: metric systems
sistema métrico
1. A decimal system of units based on the meter, kilogram, and second, used internationally for scientific and everyday measurements
The metric system is used by most countries around the world for measurements.
O sistema métrico é utilizado pela maioria dos países do mundo para medições.
2. A standardized system of measurement where units are related by powers of 10
Scientists prefer the metric system because of its ease of conversion between units.
Os cientistas preferem o sistema métrico pela facilidade de conversão entre unidades.
Brazil officially adopted the metric system in 1862 and it remains the standard measurement system in education and commerce. In the United States, despite international standardization, the imperial system (feet, pounds, Fahrenheit) remains more common in everyday use, though the metric system is standard in scientific and medical fields.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
decimal systemSI unitsInternational System of Units
Antonyms / Antônimos
imperial systemUS customary units

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
sistema métrico
Standard usage in Brazil; officially adopted and taught in schools
Portugal
sistema métrico
Standard usage; long-established as the official measurement system
United States
metric system
Less commonly used than in other developed nations; imperial system still prevalent

Related Words

meterkilogramlitercelsiusconversion

Related Idioms & Phrases

convert to the metric system
think in metric
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