The word "proportionate" can be a bit tricky when it comes to spelling. The initial syllable is spelled with the letter "pro" and is pronounced as /prəʊ/. The second syllable is spelled with the letters "por" and is pronounced as /pɔːr/. The third syllable is spelled with the letters "tion" and is pronounced as /ʃən/. The final syllable is spelled with the letters "ate" and is pronounced as /eɪt/. So, when all the syllables are put together, "proportionate" is pronounced as /prəˈpɔːrʃənət/.
Proportionate is an adjective that describes something that is in appropriate, correct, or suitable proportion or relation to something else. It refers to something that is balanced, harmonious, or commensurate in its size, quantity, or degree in relation to a specific standard, requirement, or expectation.
When an object or element is proportionate, it means that its dimensions or magnitude are in symmetry or harmony with a desired ratio or scale. For example, a well-proportioned sculpture would have all its parts balanced and in relation to each other, creating an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
In a more abstract sense, proportionate can also be used to describe actions or responses that are in accordance with the circumstances or the gravity of a situation. For instance, if someone receives a compliment, a proportionate response would be to express gratitude or acknowledge the praise, rather than overreacting or dismissing it entirely.
Additionally, proportionate can be used in legal contexts to refer to a punishment, sanction, or penalty that is reasonably aligned with the severity of an offense or transgression, avoiding excessive severity or undue leniency.
Overall, proportionate conveys the idea of a proper or fitting relationship, whether in terms of physical dimensions, quantities, actions, or consequences, and implies a sense of balance and appropriateness.
• To adjust according to a settled rate.
• Adjusted to something else according to a certain rate or comparative relation.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "proportionate" is derived from the Latin word "proportionatus", which is the past participle of the verb "proportionare". This Latin term is formed by combining "pro" (meaning "for" or "according to") and "portio" (meaning "portion" or "part"). In essence, "proportionate" conveys the sense of being in proper or considerate relation or balance to something else, specifically referring to size, quantity, or degree.