Ratio: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when comparing two quantities and expressing the relative size of one to the other. It is especially common in mathematics and scientific contexts.

• The ratio of boys to girls in the class is 3:2.
• Mix the ingredients in a 1:4 ratio.

Use this term when discussing the relationship between parts of a whole or when comparing elements of a set. It often indicates the relative size or extent of each part.

• The proportion of adults to children in the study is 2:1.
• A significant proportion of the budget is allocated to education.

This word is broader and is used to describe the way in which two or more things are connected. It is less specific than 'ratio' and 'proportion' and can apply to both quantitative and qualitative relationships.

• There is a strong relation between diet and health.
• The relation between the two variables is not immediately clear.

This term is appropriate for expressing a part or share of a whole in hundredths. It is widely used in statistics, finance, and everyday comparisons.

• She scored 90% on her exam.
• A large percentage of the population supports the new law.

Used when expressing the quantitative relationship between two numbers, especially in mathematics, science, and finance.

• The ratio of men to women in the company is 1:3.
• You need to maintain a 2:1 water to rice ratio for this recipe.

Appropriate when describing the way in which two or more concepts, objects, or people are connected, often used in both personal and professional contexts.

• She has a good relationship with her colleagues.
• The relationship between supply and demand affects market prices.

Appropriate when examining the similarities and differences between two or more items.

• A comparison between the two products shows that one is clearly superior.
• The teacher made a comparison between ancient Rome and modern cities.

Used in statistics and research to describe a mutual relationship or connection between two or more things, showing how one may affect or relate to the other.

• There is a significant correlation between exercise and healthy living.
• The study showed a strong correlation between smoking and lung cancer.

When you want to describe the quantitative relationship between two quantities, often used in mathematics, statistics, and technical contexts.

• The ratio of students to teachers in the school is 20:1.
• The gas-to-oil ratio is critical for engine performance.

When you highlight the relative size or amount of one part compared to the whole, often used in design, art, and statistical contexts.

• The architect focused on the proportion of the windows to the walls.
• A high proportion of the population is vaccinated.

When you refer to a state of equilibrium or equal distribution, often used in everyday situations, finance, and well-being.

• She is trying to find a balance between work and life.
• Check your bank balance before making a purchase.

When describing the connection or association between concepts, people, or things, often used in social sciences and everyday interactions.

• Her relation to the topic made the discussion more interesting.
• The relation between exercise and health is well-documented.