Proportions: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'proportions' when discussing the relationship between parts of a whole. It's often used in mathematics and to describe the sizes of parts in relation to each other.

• The proportions of ingredients in the recipe affect the taste.
• The artist paid careful attention to the proportions of the human body in the drawing.

Use 'ratios' in mathematical contexts to quantify the relationship between numbers. This term is precise and often used in technical settings.

• The ratio of students to teachers in the school is 20 to 1.
• They discussed the ratio of men to women in the field of engineering.

Use 'comparisons' when you are evaluating two or more items to determine their similarities and differences.

• She made comparisons between the two paintings to decide which she liked more.
• His essay included comparisons of different cultures.

Use 'scales' to describe a range of values or levels of measurement. This can be in both quantitative and qualitative contexts.

• The game developer adjusted the difficulty scale to make the game more challenging.
• On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate your experience?

Best used when discussing the relationship between the sizes, numbers, or amounts of different parts of something.

• The architect ensured the proportions of the building were pleasing to the eye.
• When cooking, following the correct proportions of ingredients is crucial.

Most appropriate when talking about a state where different elements are in the correct proportions and are evenly distributed.

• Work-life balance is important for a healthy lifestyle.
• The gymnast maintained perfect balance on the beam.

Ideal for describing a situation where different elements are combined in a pleasing and effective way; often used in artistic or social contexts.

• The colors in the painting are in perfect harmony.
• Living in harmony with nature is crucial for the environment.

Used when referring to the size or level of something, often in relation to something else or when measuring larger contexts.

• The company plans to scale up its operations next year.
• The model of the solar system was created to scale.

Used when discussing the relationship between different parts and the whole, often in design, art, and cooking.

• The proportions of the ingredients were just right, making the dish delicious.
• Architects must carefully consider the proportions of their structures.

Used when discussing the size, length, or amount of something, often with exact units.

• The tailor took my measurements to make sure the suit fit perfectly.
• Accurate measurements are crucial in scientific experiments.

Used to describe the amount of something, especially in bulk or large amounts.

• The recipe calls for large quantities of sugar and flour.
• They ordered vast quantities of supplies for the event.

Used when discussing the relationship between two numbers, often in math, finance, and science.

• The ratio of students to teachers in this school is 20 to 1.
• Investors look at financial ratios to assess a company's performance.