disproportionately
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.
“The new tax affects poor families disproportionately.”
“Research shows that the recent economic downturn has disproportionately impacted small businesses compared to large corporations.”
“While the policy was intended to be universal, its implementation disproportionately benefited urban centers, leaving rural communities with significantly fewer resources and infrastructure improvements.”
Typically modifies verbs or adjectives; often placed at the end of a clause or before the adjective it modifies.
“Disability advocacy groups have been extremely critical of the government’s amendments to the NDIS, and have warned caring responsibilities will be shifted from the scheme to families, affecting women disproportionately.”
“But experts say the industry is disproportionately vulnerable to the impact of AI.”
Common in history writing
From disproportionate + -ly.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.