A method for measuring a carrier in deactivated state is provided in this invention, comprising receiving a configuration mode that does not take effect immediately by a user terminal UE; if a deactivation control signaling for a carrier is received by the UE or if a carrier timer of the UE expires, switching the carrier from activated state to deactivated state, and measuring the carrier in deactivated state by the UE; or if an activation control signaling for a carrier in deactivated state that is being measured is received by the UE, terminating measurement of the carrier in deactivated state by the UE. Through controllable deactivated carrier measurement, the UE reduces battery power consumption and improves system performance. This invention also discloses an apparatus for measuring a carrier in deactivated state and a base station.