disproportionate
UK: ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃənət | US: ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːrʃənət
adj. not in correct relation to something else in size, amount, or importance
adj. unfairly unequal or unbalanced
The word "disproportionate" combines the Latin prefix "dis-" (indicating negation or reversal) with "proportion," derived from Latin "proportio" (a balanced relationship of parts). The suffix "-ate" forms adjectives. Historically, "proportion" entered English via Old French, rooted in the Latin "pro-" (for) + "portio" (portion). The addition of "dis-" flips the meaning to imply imbalance or inequality, reflecting a logical evolution from "proportionate."
The punishment was disproportionate to the crime.
Wealth is often distributed in a disproportionate manner.
His influence on the project was disproportionate to his role.
The media gave disproportionate attention to the scandal.
A disproportionate number of errors occurred in the final section.