in proportion

USAGE SUMMARY

"in proportion" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to express a comparison between two or more things (quantities, sizes, amounts, etc.) that have a specific relationship to each other. For example, "The amount of water used for irrigation should be in proportion to the size of the crop area."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But keep things in proportion.

The Economist

Everything was in proportion.

The New York Times

Nobody ever puts that in proportion".

The New Yorker

Everything is still in proportion.

The New York Times - Arts

In proportion to his talent.

The Guardian - Sport

It puts things in proportion.

The Guardian - Film

This is football in proportion.

The Guardian - Sport

The clue is in proportion.

The Telegraph

It is almost biblical in proportion.

Harvard University

Time to get things in proportion.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

That day I saw lovely, in-proportion curves.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in proportion" to clearly show the relationship between two or more elements where their sizes, amounts, or degrees are related to each other. For instance, "Adjust the baking time in proportion to the size of the cake pan".

Common error

Avoid using "in proportion" when a simpler word like "equal" or "matching" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex or formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in proportion" functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb or noun to indicate a relationship of equivalence or correspondence between two or more things. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is used correctly.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

26%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in proportion" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to express a relationship of equivalence or correspondence between different elements. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and very common across diverse contexts, particularly in news media and academic writing. While it conveys a sense of balance and relation, alternative phrases like "commensurate with" or "relative to" may be more fitting depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using "in proportion", it's crucial to ensure that the relationship between the compared elements is clear and logical to maintain coherence in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

proportional to

Similar meaning but uses the adjective form, often in mathematical or scientific contexts.

commensurate with

Emphasizes a matching or corresponding degree, often used in formal contexts.

in relation to

Highlights the connection or association between two things, focusing on their interdependence.

relative to

Indicates a comparison based on a specific reference point.

corresponding to

Implies a direct and equivalent relationship.

in balance with

Focuses on achieving equilibrium or stability in the relationship.

in alignment with

Suggests a harmonious or coordinated relationship.

consistent with

Highlights the uniformity or regularity of the relationship.

in sync with

Implies a synchronized or rhythmic correspondence.

matching

A more direct and simple way of saying things are of equal measure.

FAQs

How can I use "in proportion" in a sentence?

Use "in proportion" to describe a relationship where one thing increases or decreases as another does. For example, "The punishment should be "commensurate with" the crime", meaning the severity of the punishment should match the severity of the crime.

What's the difference between "in proportion to" and "proportional to"?

"In proportion to" is a prepositional phrase used to show the relationship between two things. "Proportional to" is an adjective that describes something having a constant ratio to something else. For example, "The reward was in proportion to the risk taken" versus "The reward was proportional to the risk taken".

What are some alternatives to "in proportion"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "commensurate with", "relative to", or "corresponding to" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it more appropriate to use "in proportion" in formal or informal writing?

"In proportion" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, but it is generally more common in formal or technical contexts where precise relationships need to be described. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives may be preferred.