noun / verb
ratio
RAY-shee-oh/ˈreɪʃiəʊ/
A comparison expressing one quantity relative to another.
The ratio of red counters to blue counters is 2:3.
Etymology
Latin ratio meant a reckoning or calculation, as well as reasoning. The mathematical use focuses that calculating sense on how many times one quantity contains another.
In context
But, with the fraction, both the top and bottom numbers are referring to the same thing; the sandwich. However, with the ratio, the top and bottom numbers are referring to different things: sandwiches and people.
More examples
- Mix two parts flour with one part water for a 2:1 ratio.
- Smaller classes lower the ratio of students to teachers.
- His post gets ratioed, with far more critical replies than likes.
Forms
ratio · ratios · ratioed · ratioing
Similar words
- proportion
- Often compares a part with the whole, rather than two amounts.
- rate
- Compares quantities in different units, such as miles per hour.