procentpoint

Procentpoint is a unit of measurement used to describe the absolute difference between two percentages. It denotes how much a percentage value has changed in fixed, additive terms rather than as a relative proportion. The term is commonly used in Dutch-language statistical and journalistic contexts and corresponds to the English term percentage point.

Distinction from percent: A procentpoint change is not the same as a percent change. A procentpoint change reflects a fixed addition or subtraction to the percentage. For example, an increase from 6% to 7% is an increase of 1 procentpoint. A relative change, such as “doubling,” would require comparing the new value to the original percentage, not measuring the fixed difference.

Usage and examples: Procentpoints are used when reporting shifts in indicators like voting shares, unemployment rates, inflation, or survey results. Common formulations include “an increase of 2 procentpoints” or “a decline of 1 procentpoint.” To avoid confusion, writers often separate this from phrases like “2% higher,” which imply a relative change.

Etymology and scope: The concept exists in many languages under names such as percentage point in English and procentpunt in Dutch, with plural forms used when discussing multiple changes. It is widely used in statistics, economics, politics, and media to communicate clear, unit-based changes in percentages.

See also: percentage, percentage point, rate of change.