What Is the Difference Between Pro Rata and Prorated?

Learn the difference between 'pro rata' and 'prorated' and how to use each term correctly in proportional calculations.

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Both 'pro rata' and 'prorated' are correct, but they are used differently. 'Pro rata' is a Latin term meaning 'proportional,' and it is often used as an adverb or adjective, e.g., 'pro rata distribution.' 'Prorated' is the past tense of 'prorate,' meaning something has been divided or calculated proportionally over time or units, e.g., 'prorated rent.' Essentially, 'pro rata' describes the method, while 'prorated' describes the action.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What does pro rata mean? 'Pro rata' is a Latin term meaning 'proportional,' used as an adjective or adverb to describe something divided proportionally.
  2. When should you use prorated instead of pro rata? 'Prorated' is the past tense of 'prorate' and is used to describe an action where an amount has been calculated or divided proportionally over time or units.
  3. Is pro rata a noun or an adjective? 'Pro rata' is generally used as an adjective or adverb, for example, in phrases like 'pro rata distribution.'

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