sliding scale

(slī'dĭng)
n.
A scale in which indicated prices, taxes, or wages vary in accordance with another factor, as wages with the cost-of-living index or medical charges with a patient's income.

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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.

For a list of words related to sliding scale, see:

• Economics and Economic Theory - sliding scale: variable scale, as for wages or prices charged, based on changes in other factors or ability to pay

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