Definition

Adjective - Having a specific or suitable relationship in size, amount, or degree: "proportioned" describes something that is arranged or shaped with parts that are in proper or pleasing proportion to each other. It often implies balance, symmetry, or harmony among the components of a whole.

Usage Examples

• (The statue's parts were balanced and symmetrical.)
• (The room's elements were arranged in a balanced and pleasing way.)
• (The cake's parts were not in harmonious size relationships.)

Advanced Usage

• "well-proportioned": having parts that are in pleasing or correct proportion.
  • The building is well-proportioned, with a grand entrance that matches the height of the facade. (The building's features are balanced and aesthetically pleasing.)
• "ill-proportioned": having parts that are not in proper proportion.
  • The ill-proportioned house had a tiny door and oversized windows. (The house's parts were mismatched and unbalanced.)

Variants and Related Words

• Proportion (noun): the comparative relationship between parts of a whole in terms of size, amount, or degree.
  • The proportion of sugar to flour in this recipe is two to one. (The ratio of ingredients is specified.)
• Proportional (adjective): corresponding in size, amount, or degree to something else.
  • The punishment was proportional to the crime. (The penalty matched the offense's severity.)
• Proportionate (adjective): having a constant ratio to something else; in proportion.
  • The costs are proportionate to the benefits. (Costs and benefits are balanced.)
• Disproportioned (adjective): not properly balanced or symmetrical.
  • The disproportioned figure looked awkward in the painting. (The figure's parts were not in harmony.)

Synonyms

• Balanced: having parts in proper or equal proportion.
• Symmetrical: having parts that correspond in size, shape, and position on opposite sides of a dividing line.
• Harmonious: forming a pleasing or consistent whole.
• Matched: corresponding in size, amount, or quality.

Related Idioms

• In proportion: having a balanced or correct relationship between parts.
  • The room's decorations were kept in proportion to its size. (The decorations did not overwhelm the space.)
• Out of proportion: having an unbalanced or excessive relationship between parts.
  • His reaction was out of proportion to the minor mistake. (His response was too extreme for the situation.)

Phrasal Verbs