Inklingo

How to Say "ratio" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word forratiois proporciónuse 'proporción' when referring to a mathematical relationship between two or more quantities, especially when comparing parts to a whole or establishing a balanced relationship.

English → Spanish

proporción

nounB1general
Use 'proporción' when referring to a mathematical relationship between two or more quantities, especially when comparing parts to a whole or establishing a balanced relationship.

Examples

La proporción de asistentes masculinos y femeninos era equilibrada.

The proportion of male and female attendees was balanced.

tasa

TAH-sahˈtasa

nounB1general
Use 'tasa' when comparing two quantities, particularly in contexts like economics, demographics, or statistics, often indicating a rate per unit.
A colorful bar chart showing three bars of increasing height.

Examples

La tasa de desempleo ha aumentado significativamente.

The unemployment rate has increased significantly.

La tasa de natalidad ha disminuido este año.

The birth rate has decreased this year.

El banco ofrece una tasa de interés muy baja.

The bank offers a very low interest rate.

Always Feminine

Even though it ends in 'a', just remember it always uses 'la' or 'una'. It doesn't change based on who is speaking.

The 'S' vs 'Z' Trap

Mistake:Using 'tasa' when you want to drink coffee.

Correction: Use 'taza' (with a Z) for a cup, and 'tasa' (with an S) for a rate or fee. They sound exactly the same in most of Latin America!

razón

nounC1formal/technical
Use 'razón' for a more formal or technical mathematical proportion, often used when expressing interest rates, growth factors, or specific mathematical ratios.

Examples

El crecimiento se mide a razón de 3 centímetros por año.

The growth is measured at a rate of 3 centimeters per year.

Proporción vs. Tasa

Learners often confuse 'proporción' and 'tasa'. While both compare quantities, 'tasa' is typically used for rates per unit (like birth rate, interest rate), whereas 'proporción' refers more broadly to the relationship or balance between parts.

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