are not proportionate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are not proportionate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a lack of balance or equality between two or more elements, often in contexts like comparisons, evaluations, or assessments. Example: "The resources allocated to the project are not proportionate to the expected outcomes, leading to inefficiencies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

"The charges are not proportionate to our smaller size and ability to pay relative to many of our peers".

The Guardian - Business

Trump will say the steps Iran has taken as its part of the deal are not proportionate to the sanctions relief the country has been granted.

The Guardian

To me that is an example of people's emotional reactions, their denial of what the real problems are, driving individual and policy responses that are not proportionate to our gravest problems".

The New York Times - Style

"Outsized" fines and penalties for past misconduct "are not proportionate to our smaller size", grumbled McFarlane, a plea of poverty that jars with the fact that Barclays still managed to dig deep and pay 323 employees more than £1m last year.

The Guardian - Business

And they are not proportionate.

TechCrunch

And they are not proportionate," Reda told us last year.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

It's not proportionate.

The Guardian

That is not proportionate to our interests.

The Washington Post

It was not proportionate or in moderation.

The New York Times

It is not proportionate to what is happening.

The Guardian

"Some of Russia's actions were not proportionate," she said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are not proportionate", ensure that the elements being compared are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify what aspects or qualities lack proportionality.

Common error

While "are not proportionate" is grammatically correct, avoid overusing it in formal writing where more precise or nuanced language could enhance clarity. Consider alternatives like "disproportionate" or "unbalanced" depending on the specific context.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "are not proportionate" is to serve as a predicate adjective, describing a subject whose characteristics lack a balanced or appropriate relationship between its constituent parts or related elements. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are not proportionate" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a lack of balance or appropriate relationship between elements. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, predominantly in news, science, and business. While grammatically correct, overuse in formal writing should be avoided in favor of more precise alternatives. When using "are not proportionate", ensure the elements being compared are clearly defined. Common related phrases include "are disproportionate" and "are not commensurate". Understanding these nuances can enhance your writing and ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are disproportionate

This alternative uses a single word to convey the meaning, indicating an imbalance.

are not commensurate

This phrase suggests that two things are not equal or adequate in comparison.

are not balanced

This option emphasizes the lack of equilibrium between different aspects.

are out of proportion

This indicates that the relative size or importance of something is incorrect.

are not in equilibrium

This alternative implies a lack of stability or balance in a system.

do not correspond

This suggests a mismatch or lack of alignment between two things.

are not equivalent

This highlights the lack of equality in value, measure, or force.

are inadequate

This points out the insufficient nature of something in relation to a specific need or requirement.

are not suitable

This indicates that the level or quality of an element is not good for something.

are not adapted

This emphasizes the lack of fitness or adjustment to a situation or standard.

FAQs

How can I use "are not proportionate" in a sentence?

You can use "are not proportionate" to describe a lack of balance or appropriate relationship between elements. For example, "The resources allocated "are not proportionate" to the project's needs".

What phrases can I use instead of "are not proportionate"?

Alternatives include "are disproportionate", "are not commensurate", or "are not balanced". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "are not proportionate" or "is not proportionate"?

"Are not proportionate" is used with plural subjects, while "is not proportionate" is used with singular subjects. For example, "The fines are not proportionate" versus "The response is not proportionate".

What is the difference between "are not proportionate" and "are disproportionate"?

"Are not proportionate" is a more descriptive phrase indicating a lack of balance. "Are disproportionate" is a more concise and direct way of saying the same thing, often implying a significant imbalance.