The word “mete” is not as commonly used in everyday conversations but it carries a strong and specific meaning. It is often found in literature legal contexts and historical texts. Understanding its definition and usage can enhance vocabulary and improve writing skills.
This topic explores the definition of “mete” its historical origins synonyms example sentences and different ways it is used in modern English.
Definition of “Mete”
The verb “mete” means to distribute allot or measure something often in a strict or authoritative manner. It is commonly followed by the preposition “out” forming the phrase “mete out” which means to give or dispense something such as justice punishment or rewards.
Formal Definition:
According to dictionaries “mete” is defined as:
To dispense or allot justice punishment or a share of something.
Examples of “Mete” in a Sentence:
- The judge decided to mete out a harsh punishment for the crime.
- Teachers should mete out discipline fairly among students.
- The government meted out financial aid to affected families.
Origins and Etymology of “Mete”
The word “mete” has its roots in Old English “metan” meaning “to measure.” It later evolved to include the idea of distributing or assigning something often with authority.
In medieval times “mete” was commonly used in legal and governance contexts where leaders or rulers would mete out justice based on laws and customs.
Different Meanings and Uses of “Mete”
1. Mete as “To Distribute”
The most common use of “mete” refers to giving or allocating something usually in a formal or authoritative way.
Examples:
- The military court meted out severe penalties for misconduct.
- Relief organizations mete out food supplies in disaster zones.
2. Mete in a Legal or Punitive Sense
In legal contexts “mete” is often used to describe punishments or justice being assigned by a judge leader or authority figure.
Examples:
- The ruler meted out justice without mercy.
- The court metes out sentences based on the severity of the crime.
3. Mete in a Figurative Sense
“Mete” can also be used metaphorically to describe the distribution of abstract concepts like kindness fairness or retribution.
Examples:
- Life tends to mete out rewards and consequences based on our actions.
- Karma has a way of meting out justice over time.
4. Mete in an Archaic Sense (Measuring Land)
Historically “mete” was also used in reference to measuring land or boundaries though this usage is now rare.
Example:
- The landowners gathered to mete the fields before dividing them.
Common Phrases and Expressions with “Mete”
1. “Mete Out”
The most frequently used phrase with “mete” is “mete out” which means to give or administer something especially punishment or justice.
Examples:
- The coach meted out extra training for late arrivals.
- Parents should be careful about how they mete out discipline.
2. “Mete and Bound” (Historical Term)
In old legal and land measurement contexts “mete” was used in “mete and bound” referring to the measurement and division of land.
Example:
- The farm was divided based on the mete and bound system.
Synonyms of “Mete”
If you want to use different words with similar meanings here are some synonyms for “mete”:
- Distribute
- Allocate
- Dispense
- Assign
- Measure out
- Apportion
- Deal out
Each of these words can be used based on the specific context of “mete” in a sentence.
How to Use “Mete” Properly in Sentences
1. Common Sentence Structures with “Mete”
“Mete” is often used in the following sentence structures:
- “Mete out” + punishment/reward
- The principal meted out detention to the misbehaving students.
- “Mete” + something (old usage)
- The ancient king would mete justice with fairness.
2. When to Use “Mete”
You should use “mete” when referring to:
- Distributing justice punishment or rewards
- The leader meted out severe consequences for betrayal.
- Giving something in a measured way
- The professor meted out assignments equally among students.
3. Common Mistakes When Using “Mete”
- Confusing “mete” with “meet” – “Mete” means to distribute while “meet” means to encounter.
- ❌ Incorrect: The judge will meet out punishment.
- ✅ Correct: The judge will mete out punishment.
- Using “mete” without “out” in modern contexts – Although “mete” alone was common in older English today “mete out” is the standard phrase.
Mete vs. Other Similar Words
1. Mete vs. Distribute
- Mete – Often used in formal authoritative contexts especially related to justice or punishment.
- The teacher meted out extra homework to late students.
- Distribute – More general and used for both physical and abstract things.
- The manager distributed bonuses at the end of the year.
2. Mete vs. Allocate
- Mete – Suggests giving something in a measured way often with consequences.
- The coach meted out extra drills for those who skipped practice.
- Allocate – Used for dividing resources or tasks.
- The company allocated funds for research projects.
3. Mete vs. Deal Out
- Mete – Sounds more formal and authoritative.
- The judge meted out a heavy fine.
- Deal Out – Sounds more casual and can be used in everyday situations.
- The referee dealt out penalties during the game.
Why Is the Word “Mete” Important?
The word “mete” is important because it is useful in legal historical and formal writing. It helps convey authority fairness and measured distribution of justice or consequences.
1. Understanding Legal and Historical Texts
“Mete” is often found in old laws literature and governance-related documents.
2. Enhancing Vocabulary for Formal Writing
Using “mete” correctly can improve writing skills especially in academic legal or journalistic contexts.
3. Expressing Justice and Authority Effectively
Since “mete” is tied to justice and consequences it helps in discussions about law leadership and discipline.
Final Thoughts
The word “mete” means to distribute or allot something usually punishment justice or rewards. It is most commonly used in the phrase “mete out” which means to administer or dispense something in a measured way.
By understanding its meaning synonyms and correct usage you can effectively incorporate “mete” into conversations writing and formal discussions. Whether referring to justice discipline or fairness “mete” is a powerful word that conveys authority and measured action.
