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Proportional: meaning, definitions and examples

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proportional

 

[ prəˈpɔːrʃənl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

mathematics

Having a constant ratio or relation between two quantities. In other words, as one quantity increases, the other quantity also increases in a consistent and proportional manner.

Synonyms

commensurate, corresponding, proportionate, relative

Examples of usage

  • The length of a rectangle is proportional to its width.
  • The speed of a moving object is directly proportional to the force applied.
  • As the temperature rises, the volume of a gas expands proportionally.
Context #2 | Adjective

general

Being in proportion or harmony with something else. Referring to a balanced or appropriate relationship between different parts.

Synonyms

appropriate, balanced, harmonious, symmetrical

Examples of usage

  • She believes in a proportional distribution of resources among all team members.
  • The punishment should be proportional to the crime committed.
  • There should be a proportional representation of different cultures in the media.

Translations

Translations of the word "proportional" in other languages:

🇵🇹 proporcional

🇮🇳 अनुपाती

🇩🇪 proportional

🇮🇩 proporsional

🇺🇦 пропорційний

🇵🇱 proporcjonalny

🇯🇵 比例の

🇫🇷 proportionnel

🇪🇸 proporcional

🇹🇷 orantılı

🇰🇷 비례하는

🇸🇦 متناسب

🇨🇿 proporcionální

🇸🇰 proporcionálny

🇨🇳 成比例的

🇸🇮 proporcionalen

🇮🇸 í hlutfalli við

🇰🇿 пропорционал

🇬🇪 პროპორციული

🇦🇿 mütənasib

🇲🇽 proporcional

Etymology

The word 'proportional' originates from the Latin word 'proportionalis', which is derived from the word 'proportio' meaning 'comparative relation'. The concept of proportion has been fundamental in mathematics and art for centuries, with early mathematicians like Euclid exploring the principles of proportion. The term has evolved to encompass various contexts beyond mathematics, highlighting the importance of balance and harmony in different aspects of life.

See also: disproportion, disproportionally, disproportionate, disproportionately, proportionally, proportionate, proportionately, proportions.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,446, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.