Measuring distance is an important task in many fields, such as surveying, navigation, and engineering. The most common way to measure distance is by using a ruler or other measuring device. The term 'measure distance' can also refer to the use of a METER or mile to measure longer distances. A RULE is a four-letter word for a straightedge used for measuring short distances, while a METER is a five-letter word for a metric unit of length equal to 100 centimeters. A mile is a four-letter word for a unit of length equal to 1, 609 meters.