比例

ひれい

proportion

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Understanding 比例 (bǐlì)

The word 比例 means 'proportion' or 'ratio' and is used to describe the relative size or amount of one part compared to the whole or another part. It is commonly used in statistics, economics, demographics, and everyday contexts where comparing quantities is necessary.

Usage and Nuances

When you use 比例, you often talk about how much one group or quantity represents relative to another. For example, 比例 (the proportion of girls) or 收入比例 (income proportion). It can describe both concrete numerical ratios and more abstract comparisons.

Common Collocations

Tips

  • 比例 is more formal and quantitative than just saying '多少' (how much).
  • It often appears in data reports, charts, and formal discussions.
  • Do not confuse 比例 with 比较 (comparison); 比例 specifically refers to ratio or proportion.

Using 比例 correctly helps you talk precisely about parts of a whole or relative sizes in many real-life situations.

Example Sentences

The proportion of girls in this class is higher than that of boys.

The chart shows the income proportions of different age groups.

In economics, the proportion of capital to labor is very important.