Inklingo

How to Say "proportion" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “proportion” is “medida” — use 'medida' when 'proportion' refers to a balance, a fair amount, or a degree of something, often in phrases like 'to a great extent'..

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medida

meh-DEE-dah/meˈðiða/

nounB2general
Use 'medida' when 'proportion' refers to a balance, a fair amount, or a degree of something, often in phrases like 'to a great extent'.
A clear glass jar filled with blue liquid that reaches exactly up to a distinct horizontal limit line marked near the top of the jar.

Examples

El éxito fue en gran medida gracias a tu esfuerzo.

The success was largely (to a great extent) thanks to your effort.

Quiero un vestido hecho a la medida.

I want a custom-made (tailored to fit) dress.

En la medida de lo posible, evita los gastos innecesarios.

As far as possible (to the extent possible), avoid unnecessary expenses.

Fixed Phrases

'Medida' is often used in fixed phrases like 'a la medida' (custom-made) or 'en gran medida' (largely) that function almost like adverbs or adjectives.

Confusing 'A la medida'

Mistake: “Using 'por la medida' when you mean 'custom-made'.”

Correction: The correct preposition is 'a': 'un traje hecho a la medida' (a suit made to fit).

razón

nounC1formal
Choose 'razón' when 'proportion' signifies a ratio, a rate, or a comparative relationship between two quantities.

Examples

El interés se calcula a razón del cinco por ciento anual.

The interest is calculated at a rate of five percent per year.

Medida vs. Razón

Learners often confuse 'medida' and 'razón' because both can relate to comparison. Remember, 'medida' implies a balance or degree, while 'razón' specifically denotes a mathematical or comparative ratio.

Related Translations

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