ENGLISH
REFERENCE

disproportionately

adv. manner
C1 Advanced US //ˌdɪspɹəˈpɔɹʃənətɫi// UK //dˌɪspɹəpˈɔːʃənətli// dis·pro·por·tion·ate·ly

adv. in a way that is too large or too small compared to something else. It describes a situation where things are not equal or fair.

adv. to an extent that is out of proportion or unequal in relation to something else. Often describes statistical or social imbalances.


SIMPLE

The new tax affects poor families disproportionately.

CONTEXTUAL

Research shows that the recent economic downturn has disproportionately impacted small businesses compared to large corporations.

COMPLEX

While the policy was intended to be universal, its implementation disproportionately benefited urban centers, leaving rural communities with significantly fewer resources and infrastructure improvements.

Antonyms
Origin

From disproportionate + -ly.

Usage

Typically modifies verbs or adjectives; often placed at the end of a clause or before the adjective it modifies.

© 2026 English Reference