a proportionate response

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a proportionate response" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing reactions or actions that are balanced or appropriate in relation to a specific situation or provocation. Example: "In the face of criticism, the leader emphasized the importance of a proportionate response to maintain peace and order."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Downing Street spoke of a "proportionate" response.

The Guardian

We are simply asking for a proportionate response.

The Guardian - Opinion

Instead, we need a proportionate response to extremism.

The Guardian - Tech

"We have a proportionate response in place," he said.

Independent

I think we do need to make a proportionate response.

Independent

Statistically you're overwhelmingly safe from terrorism, remembering that enables us to have a proportionate response".

The Guardian

But security minister Lord West defended the measures as a proportionate response.

The Guardian

"But on the part of the tourist, there has not been a proportionate response," he said.

The New York Times - Travel

However, Channel 4 has called Ofcom's decision a "proportionate response to a complex social issue".

The Guardian

In light of this our position is that management action is a proportionate response.

The Guardian

State-sanctioned spying on one in every 78 adults every year cannot be a proportionate response to our problems.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In strategic planning or risk management, ensure your proposed actions are "a proportionate response" to the identified threats or opportunities to maintain credibility and resource efficiency.

Common error

Avoid interpreting "a proportionate response" as requiring an identical action in return. Proportionality implies a balance, not necessarily a mirror image. A financial penalty, for example, might be "a proportionate response" to a minor infraction, rather than imprisonment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a proportionate response" functions as a noun phrase typically used as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig examples show it often describes actions taken that are measured and balanced in relation to an initial event or situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a proportionate response" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe actions that are appropriately balanced to a particular situation. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, this phrase emphasizes fairness and measured action, especially in sensitive discussions such as legal or ethical scenarios. It is crucial to remember that proportionality implies balance, not necessarily exact reciprocity. Alternatives such as "a commensurate reaction" or "a balanced answer" can be used to convey similar meanings, depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a commensurate reaction

Emphasizes the matching or corresponding degree of reaction to the initial action.

a balanced answer

Focuses on achieving equilibrium and fairness in the reply or solution provided.

a measured reply

Highlights the careful and thoughtful nature of the response, suggesting restraint.

an appropriate action

Indicates that the step taken is suitable and fitting for the given circumstances.

a fitting reaction

Stresses the suitability and appropriateness of the response in relation to the initial event.

a reasonable countermeasure

Suggests that the defensive action is sensible and not excessive.

a calibrated answer

Emphasizes the precise and adjusted nature of the response, ensuring it is neither too strong nor too weak.

a justified action

Focuses on the legitimacy and defensibility of the action taken.

an equivalent reaction

Highlights that the response is equal in force or intensity to the stimulus.

a tailored response

The reply is customized and adapted to the particular situation, making it specifically suitable.

FAQs

How is "a proportionate response" used in legal contexts?

In legal contexts, "a proportionate response" refers to an action that is fair and appropriate given the circumstances, especially in considering self-defense, use of force, or sentencing guidelines. It ensures that the response isn't excessive or unreasonable in relation to the initial provocation or offense.

What's the difference between "appropriate response" and "a proportionate response"?

"Appropriate response" suggests that the reaction is suitable or fitting for a situation. "A proportionate response" specifically implies that the response is balanced and not excessive compared to the initial action or situation.

When is it important to consider "a proportionate response"?

It's crucial to consider "a proportionate response" in any situation where you need to react to a stimulus, especially in scenarios involving conflict resolution, legal matters, disciplinary actions, or strategic decision-making. It helps maintain fairness, avoid escalation, and ensure that your actions are perceived as reasonable and just.

Can "a proportionate response" involve inaction?

Yes, in some situations, the most "proportionate response" might be to take no action at all. This is particularly true when the potential negative consequences of acting outweigh any benefits, or when intervention could exacerbate the situation rather than improve it.