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Disproportionate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Disproportionate means not in correct relation to something else in size, amount, or importance. It often implies an unfair or unbalanced comparison, such as a response being too extreme for the situation.

disproportionate

/ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːrʃənət/ /ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃənət/

Definition:

Too large or too small in comparison to something else; not in correct proportion.

Synonyms:

unequal, uneven, unbalanced, excessive

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

proportionate, balanced, equal

Common Collocations:

disproportionate impact, disproportionate share, disproportionate response, disproportionate amount

Derivatives:

disproportionately, disproportionality

Usage Tips:

Use "disproportionate" to describe something that is not balanced or fair in relation to another thing.

Common Phrases:

disproportionate force, disproportionate influence, disproportionate burden

Etymology:

From Latin "dis-" (not) + "proportionatus" (proportioned), meaning not properly proportioned.

Examples:

  • 1. The punishment seemed disproportionate to the crime committed.
  • 2. Her reaction was disproportionate to the minor mistake he made.
  • 3. The wealth distribution is highly disproportionate in some countries.
  • 4. They received a disproportionate amount of attention for such a small issue.

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