A multifunctional ergonomic tape measure provides a stopping mechanism within its housing body containing a retractable measuring tape which is engaged by squeezing together the housing body and a hinged arm, thereby clamping the measuring tape firmly between two friction surfaces provided by corresponding friction pads mounted in opposed facing relation on the housing body and the arm. The housing includes a duck-bill extending from the front of the body. The duck-bill has a flat, large surfaced face on the front thereof for reading measurements and for sliding along the edges of building material when making parallel lines. The tape end of the tape provides a thumb hold on its upper portion to aid the user in firmly holding both a pencil or utility knife and the tape end. The tape measure is useful for drawing a radius, to obtain inside measurements, and as a square to mark short length right angle lines.