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Incommensurate: meaning, definitions and examples

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incommensurate

 

[ ɪn.kəˈmɛn.sər.ɪt ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

mathematics

Not having a common measure or equal standard; not proportionate.

Synonyms

disparate, disproportionate, unequal

Examples of usage

  • The two lines are incommensurate in length.
  • His efforts and the results were incommensurate.
Context #2 | Adjective

general

Out of keeping or proportion with something else.

Synonyms

disproportionate, excessive, undue

Examples of usage

  • The punishment seemed incommensurate with the crime.
  • His wealth was incommensurate with his modest lifestyle.

Etymology

The word 'incommensurate' originated from the Latin word 'incommensurabilis', which is a combination of 'in-' (not) and 'commensurabilis' (commensurable). It entered the English language in the early 17th century. The concept of incommensurability has been significant in mathematics, philosophy, and other fields, where it denotes the absence of a common measure between two objects or entities.

See also: commensurately.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,231 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.