What is the difference between running meter and meter ?

The terms "running meter" and "meter" are often used in the context of measuring materials, such as fabrics or cables. The main difference between the two lies in how the measurement is taken.

Meter: A meter, typically referred to as a "linear meter" or simply "meter," is a standard unit of length in the metric system. It represents a length of one meter, which is equivalent to approximately 3.28 feet or 39.37 inches. When you purchase an item by the meter, you are buying a continuous length of material that measures one meter in length.

Running Meter: The term "running meter" is used to describe a measurement that takes into account any variations or irregularities in the length of a material. It is often used when the material is not of uniform length or when it may have variations due to irregular edges, patterns, or other factors. Rather than measuring a fixed length of one meter, a running meter refers to the measurement of the material from the starting point to the end point, following its contours or irregularities. Essentially, it is the total length required to cover a given area or to complete a specific task.

To illustrate the difference, let's consider an example:
Suppose you need to buy a fabric to cover a table that measures 1.5 meters in length. If you purchase one meter of fabric, it would not be enough to cover the entire table. However, if you purchase 1.5 running meters, it would account for any irregularities or variations in the length of the fabric, ensuring that it adequately covers the entire table.

In summary, a "meter" is a fixed unit of length, whereas a "running meter" takes into account the irregularities or variations in length of a material, providing a measurement that accounts for these factors.