in proportion

1. Correctly sized in comparison with something else. Hey, that guy you drew is not in proportion with the buildings in the background. Everything looks to be in proportion to me. This is a lovely painting! You went to art school—how do I get these objects in my drawing to be in proportion?

2. In a realistic or appropriate manner, as opposed to granting something more importance, negativity, or significance than it actually warrants. I know we're all shocked by the announcement, but let's try to keep it in proportion—no one is losing their job, and no one is getting a decrease in pay. In reality, it's just a rearrangement of responsibilities. In the age of social media, people seem incapable of keeping current events in proportion. Come on, let's keep everything in proportion. Honestly, we don't know enough about the situation to blow it out of proportion!

in proportion

showing the correct size or proportion relative to something else. That man's large head is not in proportion to his small body. The cartoonist drew the dog in proportion to its surroundings.

ˌkeep something in proˈportion

react to something in a sensible way and not think it is worse or more serious than it really is: Listen, I know you’re all upset but let’s try to keep things in proportion, shall we?