SLIDING SCALE Definition & Meaning

sliding scale

noun

a variable scale, especially of industrial costs, as wages, that may be adapted to changes in demand.
a wage scale varying with the selling price of goods produced, the cost of living, or profits.
a price scale, as of medical fees, in which prices vary according to the ability of individuals to pay.
a tariff scale varying according to changing prices.

sliding scale

noun

a variable scale according to which specified wages, tariffs, prices, etc, fluctuate in response to changes in some other factor, standard, or conditions

sliding scale

A set of rates that change according to a mathematical formula. The income tax, for example, is levied on a sliding scale, with the rich paying a higher percentage than the poor.

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51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of sliding scale¹

First recorded in 1700–10

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Otherwise, compensation is usually paid on a sliding scale depending on the length of your journey and the amount of time you're held up.

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At the least, eligibility for VA benefits should reward time of service, using a transparent, sliding scale of benefits that increases based on the length of one’s career.

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It is impossible to say because there is no precedent for anything quite like this, and sanctions can be applied on a sliding scale depending on whether City are found guilty of any charges.

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Seattle manages a preschool program that provides cost assistance on a sliding scale.

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Furthermore, they will be adjusted on a sliding scale to meet the needs and experience levels of interested parties.

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