a set proportion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a set proportion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a specific, fixed ratio or fraction of something in various contexts, such as mathematics, cooking, or statistics. Example: "In the recipe, you need to mix the ingredients in a set proportion to achieve the desired flavor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

The minimum wage could be targeted at a set proportion of average weekly earnings so the lowest paid did not fall behind.

The Guardian

High percentages of national budgets must be spent on education and health, and a set proportion of the population must get basic vaccinations.

The New York Times

Power-distribution companies then buy them, or face fines for failing to buy a set proportion of renewable energy every year.

The Economist

Power distribution companies then buy them as an alternative to paying the fines levied for failing to buy a set proportion (currently 4.9%) of renewable energy annually.

The Economist

Wales's £7.9 billion annual budget is based on a 20-year-old formula which gives Wales a set proportion of similar spending in England, including spending for development.

The Economist

In a bid to ease the housing crisis, developers are obliged to provide a set proportion of affordable homes when they draw up a new project, but they are often able to negotiate this figure down with local planners.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Subjects were shown images of the classical sculpture, Doryphoros by Polykleitos, which is based on a set of proportions called the golden section.

Huffington Post

The flag has no set proportions.

Wikipedia

The department would give aid based on a category of severity, with each nation pledging a set amount in proportion to its GDP.

The Guardian

In such a setting, the proportions of known splicing events identified by SAW were 10% less than those based on short read cluster of size ≥5 (Figure 4).

Plosone

Check out his latest Bud Light Living Room Mix and prepare yourself for a set of mountainous proportions.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a set proportion", ensure the context clearly defines what the proportion relates to. For example, specify "a set proportion of the budget" rather than just "a set proportion".

Common error

Avoid using "a set proportion" without specifying what the proportion applies to. Vague statements like "allocate a set proportion" can lead to confusion. Always clarify: "allocate a set proportion of resources".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set proportion" functions as a determiner phrase, specifying a particular quantity or share of a whole. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates a pre-defined or fixed ratio.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a set proportion" is a grammatically sound phrase used to denote a defined or fixed share of something. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. It's most frequently found in news, scientific, and business writing. To ensure clarity, always specify what the "set proportion" relates to. While alternatives like "a fixed percentage" or "a specific ratio" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fixed percentage

Replaces 'proportion' with 'percentage', implying a ratio out of 100.

a specific ratio

Substitutes 'proportion' with 'ratio', focusing on the quantitative relationship.

a defined amount

Uses 'amount' instead of 'proportion', emphasizing a quantity that is clearly stated.

a predetermined share

Replaces 'proportion' with 'share', highlighting the portion allocated.

a pre-established fraction

Uses 'fraction' instead of 'proportion', focusing on a part of a whole that's pre-arranged.

a given ratio

Highlights that the proportion is already provided or known.

a designated portion

Emphasizes that the proportion is officially assigned.

a prescribed quantity

Indicates that the amount is mandated or recommended.

a set amount

Focuses on a fixed quantity rather than a relative proportion.

a fixed quantity

Highlights the invariable nature of the quantity, not its relation to a whole.

FAQs

How do I use "a set proportion" in a sentence?

Use "a set proportion" when referring to a pre-determined amount or percentage of something. For example, "The company allocates "a set proportion" of its profits to research and development".

What are some alternatives to saying "a set proportion"?

You can use alternatives like "a fixed percentage", "a specific ratio", or "a defined amount" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "a set proportion" or "a fixed proportion"?

"A set proportion" and "a fixed proportion" are largely interchangeable. The choice often depends on stylistic preference, though "set" might imply a more deliberate decision.

What does "a set proportion" mean in a mathematical context?

In mathematics, "a set proportion" refers to a specific ratio or fraction that is predetermined. It implies that the relationship between two or more quantities is fixed and known.