1.
magnification; zoom level
The degree to which an optical device enlarges an image. Expressed as a multiple (e.g., 10倍).
2.
competitive ratio; application-to-acceptance ratio
The ratio of applicants to available positions, used for exams, jobs, and other competitive selections. A higher number means stiffer competition.
Usage
In everyday Japanese, 倍率 appears frequently in two very different contexts: optics and competition. Context makes the meaning clear.
Common collocations
- 倍率が高い (high magnification; high competition)
- 倍率を上げる (to increase magnification)
- 入試の倍率 (entrance exam competitive ratio)
- 有効倍率 (job openings-to-applicants ratio)
Forms
倍 (times, fold) + 率 (rate, ratio). The 率 suffix is productive in forming ratio/rate words: 確率 (probability), 利率 (interest rate).