proportion
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proportion
The mathematical size relationship of parts to one another or to the whole.
Der Architekt achtete genau auf die richtige Proportion von Fensterfläche zu Wand.
The architect paid close attention to the correct proportion of window area to wall.
proportions
Usually used in the plural to describe the dimensions and size relationship of the parts of a body or object, often in an aesthetic sense.
Das Model hatte nach Meinung der Jury perfekte Proportionen.
In the jury's opinion, the model had perfect proportions.
to be out of proportion to
A fixed expression that indicates that the relationship between two things is inappropriate or unreasonable.
Die Kosten für die Reparatur standen in keiner Proportion zum Wert des alten Autos.
The cost of the repair was out of proportion to the value of the old car.
When talking about the appearance of a body or object, the plural form 'die Proportionen' (the proportions) is almost always used. The singular form is very rare in this context.
Der Künstler lobte die harmonischen Proportionen der Statue.
The artist praised the harmonious proportions of the statue.
The idiom 'in keiner Proportion zu etwas stehen' (to be out of proportion to something) is always used with the preposition 'zu' and the dative. It expresses a strong imbalance or mismatch.
Der Aufwand für das Projekt stand in keiner Proportion zum Ergebnis.
The effort required for the project was out of proportion to the result.
In its mathematical or technical meaning, 'Proportion' (proportion) often describes a ratio. This is typically expressed with the structure 'die Proportion von A zu B' (the proportion of A to B).
Die ideale Proportion von Wasser zu Reis ist eins zu zwei.
The ideal proportion of water to rice is one to two.
The word 'Proportion' (proportion) belongs more to formal written language or educated speech. It is used less often in everyday conversation.
Die Proportionen des Gebäudes sind beeindruckend.
The proportions of the building are impressive.
relationship / ratio
Both words can relate quantities to one another mathematically. Verhältnis refers to the quantitative relationship itself, whereas Proportion places more emphasis on the relationship between parts or between parts and the whole. Use Verhältnis for specific numbers and Proportion when the balance between the parts is the focus.
Die Proportion der Bildteile zum Ganzen wirkt auf dem Plakat ausgewogen.
The proportions of the image's parts in relation to the whole look balanced on the poster.
Das Verhältnis von Bildbreite zu Bildhöhe beträgt zwei zu eins.
The ratio of the image's width to its height is two to one.
