die Messlatte
Translation
measuring rod, benchmark, standard, bar
Examples
Der Vermesser benutzt eine Messlatte.
The surveyor uses a measuring rod.
Sie hat die Messlatte sehr hoch gelegt.
She has set the bar very high.
Grammar Patterns
to use ((a measuring rod)) The surveyor uses a Messlatte.
to set the bar ((high/low)) She set the Messlatte very high.
Similar Words
Maßstab, Standard, Kriterium, Anspruch
Etymology
From 'messen' (to measure) + 'Latte' (lath, bar). Literally a 'measuring bar'.
Memory Tips
Picture a high jump bar ('Latte'). This is the 'Messlatte', the standard or bar you have to clear.