proportions

word · lemma: proportion

Definition

Proportions are the sizes or amounts of different parts compared to each other or to the whole, especially talking about the relationship between things. They can also mean the size or scale of something, often in a notable or remarkable way.

Usage & Nuances

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Common collocations: 'large proportions', 'epic proportions', 'in the right proportions'. Refers to both mathematical relationships and to the scale/size of things. Often appears in the plural when talking about the magnitude of events or objects.

Example Sentences

The artist paid attention to the proportions of the human body in her drawings.

basic

Mix the ingredients in the right proportions to make the cake taste good.

basic

The map is drawn to scale to show the correct proportions.

basic

The problem has grown to massive proportions since last year.

natural

His story was exaggerated out of all proportions by the media.

natural

We need to keep the risks in proper proportions when making decisions.

natural