Proportional: meaning, definitions and examples

When you wish to indicate a direct relationship between two quantities, where a change in one results in a change in the other at a constant rate.

• The amount of paint needed is proportional to the surface area to be painted
• Income tax is usually proportional to earnings

In situations where you need to highlight a direct relationship or similarity to something else often in terms of position, function, or amount.

• Each student was given a corresponding number
• The rise in product prices led to a corresponding increase in costs

Used when drawing comparisons between two things, often to show how they are related in terms of size, importance, or degree.

• Your progress is relative to how much work you put in
• The importance of an event is relative to the person's perspective

When discussing something that fits or matches in size, degree, or duration with another thing, ensuring fair or suitable correspondence.

• Her salary is commensurate with her experience and skills
• The punishment should be commensurate with the crime committed

When expressing that something is properly balanced in size, amount, or degree relative to another thing, ensuring fair size or amount.

• Rewards should be proportionate to the effort put in
• The response must be proportionate to the severity of the issue

Best used when talking about quantities or sizes that maintain a consistent ratio or relationship to one another.

• The punishment should be proportional to the crime.
• Their salaries were proportional to their experience.

Used when referring to something that is evenly distributed or fair, often related to diet, lifestyle, or viewpoints.

• She maintains a balanced diet.
• The article presented a balanced view of the issue.

Fits in situations where something is suitable or proper in given circumstances.

• Wearing a suit is appropriate for a job interview.
• His reaction was appropriate given the situation.

Describes things that are free of conflict or that create a pleasing arrangement, often used in music or relationships.

• The team worked in a harmonious manner.
• The choir delivered a harmonious performance.

Refers to something that is the same on both sides of a central line; often used in geometry, art, and nature.

• The building’s design is perfectly symmetrical.
• She appreciated the symmetrical arrangement of the garden.