out of proportion

Idioms  

1. Also, out of all proportion. Not in proper relation to other things, especially by being the wrong size or amount. For example, This vase looks out of proportion on this small table, or Her emotional response was out of all proportion to the circumstances. The noun proportion means “an agreeable or harmonious relationship of one thing relative to another.” [Early 1700s] The antonym in proportion dates from the late 1600s and also refers either to physical size or appropriate degree, as in The bird's wings are huge in proportion to its body, or Her willingness to believe him stands in direct proportion to her love for intrigue.

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Example Sentences

Pratt tapped into real issues in L.A. and then blew them wildly out of proportion.

From Slate • Jun. 9, 2026

He was previously named in court documents alleging contestants in his reality show Beast Games were "shamelessly exploited" - allegations he denied, saying they were "blown out of proportion".

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

Whether or not concerns over artificial-intelligence disruption have been blown out of proportion, one thing is certain: The pressure on the industry shows no sign of abating.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

Attorneys for Brown, Raygoza and Samane spent the week arguing that the government’s case was blown out of proportion.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

The map is poorly made; there is a great peak visible to the west not shown on it at all, and it is all out of proportion.

From "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin

Related Words

• absolute
• dire
• drastic
• egregious
• exaggerated
• exceptional
• excessive
• extraordinary
• harsh
• irrational
• outrageous
• radical
• remarkable
• severe
• sheer
• unreasonable
• unusual
• utter