量尺 (liáng chǐ) is a compound noun meaning 'measuring tape' or 'ruler' — a flexible or rigid tool used to measure length, width, or height. The first character, 量 (liáng), means 'to measure' and functions here as a verb-turned-modifier, indicating purpose; the second character, 尺 (chǐ), literally means 'foot' (a traditional Chinese unit of length) but in modern usage commonly refers to any linear measuring instrument like a ruler or tape measure.

This word is neutral in register and widely used in everyday contexts — for example, during home repairs, sewing, carpentry, or school activities. It emphasizes functionality over form: whether plastic, metal, retractable, or marked in centimeters and inches, if it’s used to obtain precise linear dimensions, it can be called a 量尺. Unlike more technical terms like 卷尺 (juǎn chǐ, 'tape measure') or 直尺 (zhí chǐ, 'straight ruler'), 量尺 is a general, inclusive term that covers various common measuring tools.