it is proportionate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is proportionate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the fairness or balance of a situation, action, or response in relation to something else. Example: "The punishment given to the offender is appropriate; it is proportionate to the severity of the crime committed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

The Scottish government's report recommended that it "review the planning system, and its implementation at local level, to ensure that it is proportionate and does not unduly inhibit the roll-out of mobile networks, particularly 4G".

BBC

"What Nato does is defensive and it is proportionate".

The Guardian

Delaney's lawyer has defended the tone of the newsletter, saying it is proportionate to the importance of the issues covered.

The Guardian

Civilian loss of life as "collateral damage" can be lawful only if it is proportionate to the military objective.

The Guardian - Opinion

The charitable response to the CMA's report is that it is proportionate to the scale of the problem.

The Guardian - Business

"In that situation we would not object to the Israeli forces defending themselves and using whatever force, including lethal force, is necessary as long as it is proportionate".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Again, it's proportionate and reasonable protection of the vulnerable.

The Guardian

"An increase is good if it's proportionate to the population and represents the people that are buying," said Travis Given, a manager with Major Model agency in New York.

The New York Times

The European judges ruled that the ban on him voting did represent a breach of the EU charter of fundamental rights but that it was proportionate "in so far as it takes into account the nature and gravity of the criminal offence committed and the duration of the penalty".

The Guardian

"This decision was taken by the officer without proper authority and without consideration of whether it was proportionate and in line with the legal considerations".

BBC

The court also backed France's contention that the ban was legitimate because it was "proportionate to the aim pursued, namely the preservation of the conditions of 'living together".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it is proportionate", ensure that the context clearly establishes what the action or response is being compared to. For example, "The fine is proportionate to the severity of the offense."

Common error

Avoid using "it is proportionate" without clearly defining the standard or measure to which something is proportional. Saying "it is proportionate" without context can make the statement vague and meaningless.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is proportionate" functions as a descriptive statement, often used to evaluate whether an action, response, or measure is justified and balanced in relation to something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it is proportionate" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase for assessing balance, fairness, or suitability. As Ludwig AI highlights, this phrase is appropriate for describing actions or responses that are well-measured in relation to a specific goal or standard. While it appears frequently in contexts such as news and media, it's important to provide clear context to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like ""it is commensurate"" or ""it is appropriate"" can offer similar meanings with slight nuances. Remember, clarity is key when using this phrase to ensure effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is commensurate

Replaces "proportionate" with "commensurate", indicating a similar degree or scale.

it is appropriate

Substitutes "proportionate" with "appropriate", suggesting suitability for a specific purpose or situation.

it is reasonable

Replaces "proportionate" with "reasonable", implying fairness and good judgment.

it is justified

Substitutes "proportionate" with "justified", indicating that there are good reasons for the action or decision.

it is fitting

Replaces "proportionate" with "fitting", suggesting that the action or response is suitable and harmonious.

it is adequate

Substitutes "proportionate" with "adequate", indicating that the action or measure is sufficient for the intended purpose.

it is equitable

Replaces "proportionate" with "equitable", implying fairness and impartiality in distribution or treatment.

it is balanced

Substitutes "proportionate" with "balanced", indicating a state of equilibrium or even distribution.

it is calibrated

Replaces "proportionate" with "calibrated", suggesting precise adjustment for a specific outcome.

it is tailored

Substitutes "proportionate" with "tailored", implying that something is specially designed to meet particular needs.

FAQs

How can I use "it is proportionate" in a sentence?

Use "it is proportionate" to describe something that is appropriately sized, measured, or balanced in relation to something else. For instance, "The response was carefully considered to ensure "it is proportionate" to the threat."

What are some alternatives to "it is proportionate"?

Alternatives include "it is commensurate", "it is appropriate", or "it is reasonable". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What does "it is proportionate" mean in a legal context?

In law, "it is proportionate" often refers to whether an action, especially by law enforcement or the government, is balanced and justifiable in relation to the objective it seeks to achieve. The action shouldn't be excessive or arbitrary.

Is it correct to say "it is proportional" instead of "it is proportionate"?

Yes, "it is proportional" is a valid alternative. Both terms convey the idea of a balanced or corresponding relationship, although "proportionate" is often used in contexts requiring careful judgment or fairness.