Meaning & Definition of word "Proportional"
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Proportional
/prəˈpɔːrʃənl/
adjective:
- 1. Having a constant ratio or relation in degree or number.
- Example: The area of the square is proportional to the square of the length of its side.
- 2. Corresponding in size or amount to something else.
- Example: The amount of tax you pay should be proportional to your income.
- 3. In mathematics, a variable that changes in relation to another variable.
- Example: The speed of the object is proportional to the force applied to it.
- 4. Consistent with a certain ratio or relationship.
- Example: The design of the building is proportional to its surroundings, making it aesthetically pleasing.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old French 'proportionel', from Latin 'proportionalis', from 'proportio'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
proportional representation:
A voting system that allocates seats based on the percentage of votes each party receives.
proportionality principle:
The legal principle that the means used to achieve a goal should not be excessively disproportionate to that goal.
Related Words
proportion:
A part or share of a whole.
ratio:
A relationship between two quantities, often expressed as a fraction.
scale:
A proportion between the size of a representation and the size of the object it represents.