size up

verb

sized up; sizing up; sizes up

transitive verb

: to form a judgment of
size up the situation

Examples of size up in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Reviewers recommend sizing up for a roomier fit. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Sep. 2025 Several people recommended sizing up due to its snug fit. Jacqueline Tempera, PEOPLE, 17 Sep. 2025 Perhaps more elusive than sizing up the economic impact of Space Command’s migration is what such a move could do to Colorado Springs’ image as a leader in space. John Aguilar, Denver Post, 14 Sep. 2025 Additionally, sizing up may offset any shrinkage due to washing, as is common with cotton T-shirts. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 12 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for size up

Word History

First Known Use

1884, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of size up was in 1884

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Cite this Entry

“Size up.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/size%20up. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.

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Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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