The words "scale" and "measure" are often confused, but they have distinct meanings. "Measure" generally refers to the process of finding the size, quantity, or amount of something, while "scale" often refers to a system or standard of measurement, or a relative size. Think of "measure" as the action, and "scale" as the context or the tool.

Let's look at some examples:

• Measure: "I need to measure the length of the table." (This means finding the length of the table using a tool like a ruler.) Translation: I need to find how long the table is using a measuring tool.
• Scale: "The architect used a scale of 1:50 when drawing the blueprint." (This refers to the ratio used to represent the actual size.) Translation: The architect used a ratio of 1 to 50 to draw the blueprint, making the drawing smaller than the actual building.

Here's another example to illustrate the difference:

• Measure: "Please measure the ingredients carefully for the cake." (This means determining the exact quantity of each ingredient.) Translation: Please find the exact amount of each ingredient for the cake.
• Scale: "The scales of justice represent fairness and balance." (This uses "scale" to refer to a system of balance or a relative proportion.) Translation: The scales of justice represent equality and balance.

Sometimes, the words can overlap. You might "measure something on a scale." For instance, you might "measure your weight on a scale." In this case, the scale is the instrument used in the process of measuring.

However, there are also situations where only one of the words is suitable. You wouldn't say you 'scaled' the ingredients; you'd 'measure' them. Likewise, you wouldn't say you 'measured' the model of a building; you'd say it was drawn to a certain 'scale'.

Pay close attention to the context to choose between these words. Knowing the subtle difference between them will greatly improve your English. Happy learning!