Meaning & Definition of word "Disproportionate"

Disproportionate

/ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːrʃənət/

adjective:

  • 1. not in proportion or balance; unequal in size, amount, or degree.
    • Example: The team faced a disproportionate amount of criticism after the loss, despite their overall strong performance this season.
  • 2. having a size, amount, or degree that is too large or too small in relation to something else.
    • Example: The funding for the project was disproportionate to the benefits it was expected to bring.
  • 3. showing or giving rise to an imbalance.
    • Example: Her workload felt disproportionate compared to her coworkers, leading to feelings of frustration.
  • 4. characterized by an excessive or inadequate ratio.
    • Example: The report highlighted how the city's budget allocations were disproportionate to the needs of its residents.

Etymology

Late Latin 'disproportionatus', from 'dis-' (not) + 'proportio' (proportion)

Common Phrases and Expressions

disproportionate response:

A reaction or retaliation that is much stronger than necessary.

disproportionate impact:

A significant effect that is not equally felt by all parties involved.

Related Words

proportion:

A part, share, or number considered in comparative relation to a whole.

proportional:

Corresponding in size or amount to something else.

Slang Meanings of disproportionate

Meaning: Off the charts

Example Sentence: The excitement at the concert was off the charts, totally disproportionate to any other event.

Meaning: Blown out of proportion

Example Sentence: Her reaction was blown out of proportion; it was completely disproportionate to the issue at hand.