disproportionately

Disproportionately is an adverb that describes something that is not in proper proportion relative to something else, or that occurs to a degree that is too large or too small to be considered typical or fair. It is formed from the adjective disproportionate, which itself derives from dis- (not) + proportion, via the suffix -ate, with roots in Latin and French.

In use, disproportionately modifies verbs, adjectives, or participles, indicating an imbalance or skew. For example, the burden was disproportionately borne by the elderly, or a small group was disproportionately represented. The term is common in statistics, social science, policy analysis, journalism, and everyday language, often to flag outcomes that are not evenly distributed or that amplify one factor relative to another.

Disproportionate does not specify a numerical threshold; it relies on context and comparison to an appropriate baseline. When used in research or reporting, it is best accompanied by data, definitions of the baseline, and a description of the measure used to assess imbalance. The concept is related to dispersion, inequality, bias, and unequal representation, and it may raise questions about causation and structural factors rather than individual fault.