relatively in 30 Seconds
- Used for comparing qualities.
- Means 'fairly' or 'quite' in context.
- Modifies adjectives and adverbs.
- Essential for nuanced descriptions.
The adverb relatively functions as a linguistic yardstick, allowing speakers to calibrate the intensity or quality of a description based on a specific context or standard of comparison. Unlike absolute terms that define something in isolation, 'relatively' requires an implicit or explicit benchmark. When we say a task is 'relatively easy,' we are not claiming it requires zero effort; rather, we are suggesting that compared to other tasks of a similar nature or compared to our expectations, the difficulty level is lower than average.
- Comparative Context
- It is used when you want to avoid making a definitive, universal claim. For instance, a 'relatively small' house might still be large for a single person but small compared to the mansions surrounding it.
The new software update was relatively stable during the initial testing phase.
In professional and academic settings, 'relatively' provides a layer of precision and caution. It signals that the speaker is aware of variables. If a scientist describes a result as 'relatively significant,' they are situating that significance within the broader body of existing research. This word is essential for nuanced communication where 'black and white' descriptions fail to capture the reality of a situation.
- Degree of Difference
- It often acts as a synonym for 'fairly' or 'quite,' but with a stronger emphasis on the relationship between the subject and its peers.
Despite the economic downturn, the company's profits remained relatively high.
- Social Nuance
- In social interactions, using 'relatively' can soften a criticism or ground a compliment in reality, making the speaker seem more grounded and observant.
The city center is relatively safe, though one should always be cautious at night.
We arrived relatively early, so we had time to grab coffee.
The exam was relatively straightforward for those who had studied.
To master 'relatively,' one must understand its syntactic placement. It almost always precedes an adjective or an adverb. It serves as an intensifier that scales the following word based on a comparison. For example, in the phrase 'relatively inexpensive,' the word 'relatively' modifies 'inexpensive' to suggest that while the item costs money, its price is low compared to other items in the same category.
- Modifying Adjectives
- This is the most common usage. Example: 'The hotel was relatively clean.' This implies it wasn't perfect, but better than expected for the price.
The procedure is relatively painless and takes only ten minutes.
- Modifying Adverbs
- It can also modify how an action is performed. Example: 'He finished the race relatively quickly.' This compares his speed to other runners.
She adapted relatively easily to the new environment.
- Positioning
- Place it directly before the word it modifies. Do not place it at the end of a sentence unless it is part of the phrase 'relatively speaking.'
The mountain is relatively small compared to the Himalayas.
The house was relatively quiet after the guests left.
The project was completed relatively on schedule.
'Relatively' is a staple of journalistic and scientific discourse. In news reports, it is used to provide context to statistics or events. A reporter might say, 'The turnout was relatively low,' which tells the audience that compared to previous elections, fewer people voted. In scientific papers, it is used to describe data that is significant within the parameters of the study but perhaps not in a universal sense.
- Business and Finance
- Analysts use it to compare market performance. 'The stock is relatively undervalued' means its price is low compared to its potential or its competitors.
The company maintains a relatively low debt-to-equity ratio.
In everyday conversation, it is often used when discussing travel, weather, or personal experiences. If someone asks, 'How was your flight?' you might respond, 'It was relatively smooth,' implying there was some turbulence, but not enough to be a major problem. It is a way of being honest without being dramatic.
- Academic Lectures
- Professors use it to explain complex concepts by relating them to simpler ones. 'This theory is relatively easy to grasp once you understand the basics.'
The species is relatively rare in this part of the world.
The cost of living here is relatively modest compared to the capital.
One of the most frequent errors is using 'relatively' when no comparison is intended or possible. Because the word inherently implies a relationship, using it in a vacuum can leave the listener confused. For example, saying 'I am relatively happy' without any context might make someone ask, 'Compared to what?' It is better used when the comparison is clear from the conversation.
- Redundancy
- Avoid phrases like 'relatively more better.' This is grammatically incorrect. 'Relatively better' is sufficient.
Incorrect: The task was relatively more easier than the last one.
Another mistake is confusing 'relatively' with 'very.' While 'very' is an absolute intensifier, 'relatively' is a comparative one. If something is 'very hot,' it is at a high temperature. If it is 'relatively hot,' it is hot compared to something else (like yesterday's weather), but it might not be hot in an absolute sense.
- Misuse with Absolutes
- Do not use it with words like 'dead,' 'pregnant,' or 'unique.' These states do not exist in degrees.
Incorrect: The artifact is relatively unique.
While 'relatively' is a versatile word, choosing the right synonym can enhance the precision of your writing. Depending on the level of formality and the specific nuance you wish to convey, you might opt for 'comparatively,' 'fairly,' or 'somewhat.'
- Comparatively
- This is the closest synonym. It is slightly more formal and emphasizes the act of comparison even more strongly. Use it in academic or technical contexts.
The results were comparatively better in the second trial.
- Fairly / Quite
- These are more informal and common in spoken English. They suggest a moderate degree but don't explicitly point to a comparison as much as 'relatively' does.
The movie was fairly entertaining.
- Proportionally
- Use this when the comparison is based on size, amount, or scale. It is very common in mathematics and economics.
How Formal Is It?
"The investment carries a relatively low level of risk."
"The exam was relatively easy for most students."
"I'm doing relatively well, thanks for asking!"
"The bunny is relatively small compared to the horse."
"That party was relatively chill."
Fun Fact
The word 'relativity' became famous because of Albert Einstein, but 'relatively' has been a common adverb for centuries before him!
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing it as re-LATIVE-ly (wrong stress).
- Skipping the second syllable (rel-tiv-ly).
- Over-emphasizing the 'tiv' syllable.
- Confusing the 'v' sound with an 'f' sound.
- Making the 'e' in 'rel' too long.
Difficulty Rating
Easy to recognize in text as it usually precedes an adjective.
Requires understanding of context to use correctly without sounding vague.
Natural use requires practice with common collocations.
Clear pronunciation makes it easy to hear in speech.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Adverbs of Degree
It is relatively hot.
Comparison of Adjectives
This is relatively better than that.
Hedging in Academic Writing
The results are relatively significant.
Modifying Uncountable Nouns
There is relatively little water.
Position of Adverbs
He spoke relatively clearly.
Examples by Level
The cat is relatively small.
Le chat est relativement petit.
Relatively + adjective (small).
This book is relatively easy to read.
Ce livre est relativement facile à lire.
Relatively + adjective (easy).
The bus is relatively fast today.
Le bus est relativement rapide aujourd'hui.
Relatively + adjective (fast).
My room is relatively clean.
Ma chambre est relativement propre.
Relatively + adjective (clean).
The water is relatively warm.
L'eau est relativement chaude.
Relatively + adjective (warm).
The park is relatively near.
Le parc est relativement proche.
Relatively + adjective (near).
The phone is relatively cheap.
Le téléphone est relativement bon marché.
Relatively + adjective (cheap).
The cake is relatively sweet.
Le gâteau est relativement sucré.
Relatively + adjective (sweet).
The exam was relatively simple for me.
L'examen était relativement simple pour moi.
Relatively + adjective (simple).
We live in a relatively quiet neighborhood.
Nous vivons dans un quartier relativement calme.
Relatively + adjective (quiet).
The new car is relatively fuel-efficient.
La nouvelle voiture est relativement économe en carburant.
Relatively + adjective (fuel-efficient).
He finished the homework relatively quickly.
Il a fini ses devoirs relativement vite.
Relatively + adverb (quickly).
The weather is relatively mild this winter.
Le temps est relativement doux cet hiver.
Relatively + adjective (mild).
The hotel was relatively comfortable.
L'hôtel était relativement confortable.
Relatively + adjective (comfortable).
She is relatively tall for her age.
Elle est relativement grande pour son âge.
Relatively + adjective (tall).
The instructions were relatively clear.
Les instructions étaient relativement claires.
Relatively + adjective (clear).
The task was relatively straightforward once we started.
La tâche était relativement simple une fois que nous avons commencé.
Relatively + adjective (straightforward).
The city is relatively safe compared to others.
La ville est relativement sûre par rapport aux autres.
Relatively + adjective (safe).
He is a relatively unknown actor in this country.
C'est un acteur relativement inconnu dans ce pays.
Relatively + adjective (unknown).
The costs are relatively low for such a big project.
Les coûts sont relativement bas pour un projet aussi important.
Relatively + adjective (low).
Relatively speaking, this is the best option we have.
Relativement parlant, c'est la meilleure option que nous ayons.
Fixed phrase 'Relatively speaking'.
The technology is relatively new but very popular.
La technologie est relativement nouvelle mais très populaire.
Relatively + adjective (new).
The mountain is relatively easy to climb.
La montagne est relativement facile à gravir.
Relatively + adjective (easy).
The interview went relatively well.
L'entretien s'est relativement bien passé.
Relatively + adverb (well).
The company has remained relatively stable during the crisis.
L'entreprise est restée relativement stable pendant la crise.
Relatively + adjective (stable).
The results of the study were relatively inconclusive.
Les résultats de l'étude étaient relativement peu concluants.
Relatively + adjective (inconclusive).
She adapted relatively quickly to the corporate culture.
Elle s'est adaptée relativement vite à la culture d'entreprise.
Relatively + adverb (quickly).
The area is relatively isolated from the main tourist routes.
La zone est relativement isolée des principaux circuits touristiques.
Relatively + adjective (isolated).
The risk involved is relatively minor.
Le risque encouru est relativement mineur.
Relatively + adjective (minor).
The software is relatively bug-free after the latest patch.
Le logiciel est relativement exempt de bogues après le dernier correctif.
Relatively + adjective (bug-free).
The population remains relatively small despite recent growth.
La population reste relativement faible malgré une croissance récente.
Relatively + adjective (small).
The transition was relatively painless for the employees.
La transition a été relativement indolore pour les employés.
Relatively + adjective (painless).
The phenomenon is relatively well-documented in recent literature.
Le phénomène est relativement bien documenté dans la littérature récente.
Relatively + adverbial phrase (well-documented).
The market is relatively saturated with similar products.
Le marché est relativement saturé de produits similaires.
Relatively + adjective (saturated).
The legal framework is relatively flexible in this jurisdiction.
Le cadre juridique est relativement souple dans cette juridiction.
Relatively + adjective (flexible).
The impact of the policy was relatively negligible.
L'impact de la politique a été relativement négligeable.
Relatively + adjective (negligible).
The species is relatively abundant in this specific ecosystem.
L'espèce est relativement abondante dans cet écosystème spécifique.
Relatively + adjective (abundant).
The argument is relatively sound, though it has some flaws.
L'argument est relativement solide, bien qu'il présente quelques lacunes.
Relatively + adjective (sound).
The data suggests a relatively high correlation between the variables.
Les données suggèrent une corrélation relativement élevée entre les variables.
Relatively + adjective (high).
The procedure is relatively non-invasive compared to traditional surgery.
La procédure est relativement non invasive par rapport à la chirurgie traditionnelle.
Relatively + adjective (non-invasive).
The concept of time is relatively subjective in modern physics.
Le concept de temps est relativement subjectif dans la physique moderne.
Relatively + adjective (subjective).
The institution maintains a relatively high degree of autonomy.
L'institution conserve un degré d'autonomie relativement élevé.
Relatively + adjective (high).
The nuances of the language are relatively difficult to master.
Les nuances de la langue sont relativement difficiles à maîtriser.
Relatively + adjective (difficult).
The findings were relatively consistent with the hypothesis.
Les résultats étaient relativement cohérents avec l'hypothèse.
Relatively + adjective (consistent).
The region has enjoyed a relatively long period of peace.
La région a connu une période de paix relativement longue.
Relatively + adjective (long).
The ethical implications are relatively complex and multifaceted.
Les implications éthiques sont relativement complexes et multiformes.
Relatively + adjective (complex).
The author’s style is relatively sparse but deeply evocative.
Le style de l'auteur est relativement dépouillé mais profondément évocateur.
Relatively + adjective (sparse).
The success of the mission was relatively certain from the outset.
Le succès de la mission était relativement certain dès le départ.
Relatively + adjective (certain).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Used to indicate that you are making a comparison.
Relatively speaking, the house was a bargain.
— A significant amount compared to others.
The job requires a relatively high degree of skill.
— Not much, especially compared to what was expected.
There is relatively little time left.
— Happening often in a specific context.
Side effects are relatively common with this medicine.
— Not happening often compared to other things.
This bird is relatively rare in the city.
— Big compared to others of its kind.
A relatively large number of students failed.
Often Confused With
Relevant means 'connected to the topic,' while relatively is a word for comparison.
Relation is a noun (a connection), while relatively is an adverb of degree.
This is often redundant; just say 'relatively' or 'more'.
Idioms & Expressions
— When compared to other similar things or situations.
Relatively speaking, it's a very quiet car.
Neutral— The idea that things only have value or meaning when compared to others.
Don't worry about the price; everything is relative.
Informal— A word or concept that depends on the context.
Success is a relative term; it means different things to different people.
Neutral— Considering something in relation to something else.
In relative terms, the company is doing well.
Formal— In connection with or in comparison to.
The price is high relative to its value.
Formal— Something that is less successful or important than others in the same group.
The marketing department is the poor relative of the sales team.
Informal— Someone who has only recently joined a group or activity.
He is a relative newcomer to the political scene.
Neutral— Doing something without much difficulty compared to others.
She passed the test with relative ease.
Neutral— The state of being unknown compared to a previous state or others.
The band lived in relative obscurity for years.
Formal— The advantages and disadvantages of something compared to another.
We discussed the relative merits of both plans.
FormalEasily Confused
They mean almost the same thing.
Comparatively is more formal and focuses more on the act of comparing two specific things.
The second group performed comparatively well.
Both mean 'to some degree'.
Fairly is more informal and doesn't always imply a comparison to a standard.
I'm fairly sure I locked the door.
Both modify adjectives.
Quite often means 'very' or 'completely' in British English, whereas relatively always implies a comparison.
The book was quite interesting.
Both indicate degree.
Somewhat usually means 'a little bit,' while relatively can mean a large degree if the comparison allows it.
I was somewhat disappointed.
Both are adverbs of degree.
Rather often suggests that something is more than expected or desired.
It's rather late, isn't it?
Sentence Patterns
It is relatively [adjective].
It is relatively cold.
The [noun] is relatively [adjective].
The car is relatively fast.
Relatively speaking, [sentence].
Relatively speaking, it was a success.
It was a relatively [adjective] [noun].
It was a relatively easy test.
He [verb] relatively [adverb].
He finished relatively quickly.
The [noun] remains relatively [adjective].
The situation remains relatively stable.
A relatively [adjective] amount of [noun].
A relatively small amount of water.
Despite [noun], it is relatively [adjective].
Despite the cost, it is relatively popular.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Very common in both spoken and written English.
-
The task was relatively more easier.
→
The task was relatively easy.
Using 'more easier' is a double comparative and is grammatically incorrect. 'Relatively easy' is enough.
-
He is a relatively unique person.
→
He is a unique person.
'Unique' is an absolute. You are either unique or you are not; there are no degrees of uniqueness.
-
The weather is relatively.
→
The weather is relatively cold.
'Relatively' is an adverb and needs an adjective or adverb to modify. It cannot stand alone.
-
I am relatively happy today (with no context).
→
I am quite happy today.
Without a comparison, 'relatively' can sound confusing. Use 'quite' or 'very' for simple feelings.
-
The car is relatively fastly.
→
The car is relatively fast.
'Fast' is both an adjective and an adverb. 'Fastly' is not a word in standard English.
Tips
Placement
Always place 'relatively' before the adjective or adverb it modifies. For example, 'relatively cold' is correct, not 'cold relatively'.
Avoid Redundancy
Don't use 'relatively' with words that are already comparative, like 'better' or 'faster,' unless you are making a specific point about the degree of comparison.
Synonym Choice
Use 'comparatively' in formal essays to sound more academic, and 'fairly' in casual speech.
Softening
Use 'relatively' to give negative feedback more gently. Instead of 'The food was bad,' say 'The food was relatively disappointing'.
Precision
In technical reports, 'relatively' helps you stay objective by acknowledging that your findings are based on a specific set of data.
Context Clues
When you hear 'relatively,' look for what is being compared. The speaker is usually thinking of a standard.
The Scale Trick
Imagine a scale whenever you use the word. It helps you remember that it's about balance and comparison.
Absolute Words
Never use 'relatively' with absolute words like 'perfect,' 'unique,' or 'dead.' You can't be 'relatively dead'.
Relatively Speaking
Learn this phrase as a whole. It's a great way to start a sentence when you're about to give a balanced opinion.
CEFR B1/B2
Examiners look for words like 'relatively' to see if you can express degree and nuance beyond simple words like 'very'.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of your 'relatives' (family). You compare yourself to them. 'Relatively' is about comparing.
Visual Association
Imagine a scale. On one side is a huge elephant, on the other is a large dog. The dog is 'relatively' small.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 'relatively' three times today when describing your lunch, your work, and the weather.
Word Origin
From the Middle French word 'relatif', which comes from the Latin 'relativus'. It has been used in English since the late 14th century.
Original meaning: Having a relation or reference to something else.
Indo-European (Latin branch).Cultural Context
No major sensitivities, but be careful not to use it to downplay serious issues (e.g., 'a relatively small disaster').
Commonly used to soften opinions and avoid sounding too aggressive or certain.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Weather
- relatively warm
- relatively dry
- relatively mild
- relatively calm
Shopping
- relatively cheap
- relatively expensive
- relatively good value
- relatively affordable
Education
- relatively simple
- relatively difficult
- relatively straightforward
- relatively clear
Health
- relatively stable
- relatively painless
- relatively healthy
- relatively minor
Work
- relatively busy
- relatively quiet
- relatively productive
- relatively successful
Conversation Starters
"How was your weekend? Was it relatively relaxing?"
"Do you think this city is relatively safe for tourists?"
"Is learning English relatively easy compared to your native language?"
"Was the movie you saw last night relatively long?"
"Do you find the public transport here relatively reliable?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time when a task was relatively difficult but you finished it anyway.
Compare your current life to five years ago. What is relatively better now?
Write about a place that is relatively unknown but you think is beautiful.
How do you feel today? Is it a relatively good day for you?
Discuss a hobby that is relatively expensive to start.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, you should not say 'relatively very.' Use one or the other. 'Relatively' is for comparison, 'very' is for absolute intensity.
It is neutral to formal. It is perfectly fine in a casual conversation, but it is also very common in academic writing.
'Relative' is an adjective (a relative success) or a noun (my aunt is a relative). 'Relatively' is an adverb (relatively successful).
Yes, usually in the phrase 'Relatively speaking,' followed by a comma.
No. It means 'compared to others.' If most people are poor, a 'relatively rich' person might still not be a billionaire.
Yes, it is often used to make a statement less direct and more cautious.
Usually, it's redundant. Instead of 'relatively more expensive,' just say 'relatively expensive' or 'more expensive'.
It means that not many people know about it, compared to things that are very famous.
It is a very short 'uh' sound (a schwa). Don't emphasize it.
Yes, very often, to describe data that is significant within the context of an experiment.
Test Yourself 192 questions
Write a sentence using 'relatively' to describe the weather today.
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Write a sentence using 'relatively' to describe a movie you saw.
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Write a sentence using 'relatively' to describe your hometown.
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Write a sentence using 'relatively' in a business context.
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Write a sentence using 'relatively speaking'.
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Write a sentence using 'relatively' to describe a scientific result.
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Write a sentence using 'relatively' to compare two languages.
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Write a sentence using 'relatively' to describe a risk.
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Write a sentence using 'relatively' to describe a price.
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Write a sentence using 'relatively' to describe a speed.
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Write a paragraph about your favorite hobby using 'relatively' twice.
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Explain why 'relatively unique' is incorrect.
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Use 'relatively' to describe a person's height.
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Use 'relatively' to describe a noise level.
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Use 'relatively' to describe a difficulty level.
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Write a formal email sentence using 'relatively'.
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Use 'relatively' to describe a distance.
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Use 'relatively' to describe a time period.
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Use 'relatively' to describe a population size.
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Use 'relatively' to describe a level of success.
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Pronounce 'relatively' out loud three times.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Say 'The weather is relatively cold today.'
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Say 'Relatively speaking, I prefer tea over coffee.'
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Explain the meaning of 'relatively' to a friend.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Use 'relatively' in a sentence about your favorite sport.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Describe your house using 'relatively'.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Tell a short story about a 'relatively' lucky day.
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Discuss the 'relatively' high cost of living in your city.
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Say 'The procedure is relatively painless.'
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Use 'relatively' to compare two different cars.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Say 'The species is relatively rare in this part of the world.'
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Use 'relatively' to describe your English level.
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You said:
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Say 'The software is relatively bug-free.'
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You said:
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Use 'relatively' to describe a recent news event.
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You said:
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Say 'Relatively speaking, this is the best option.'
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You said:
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Use 'relatively' to describe a person's personality.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Say 'The mountain is relatively easy to climb.'
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Use 'relatively' to describe a meal you had.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Say 'The legal framework is relatively flexible.'
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Use 'relatively' to describe a time of day.
Read this aloud:
You said:
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Listen for 'relatively' in a news clip. What adjective followed it?
Listen to a weather report. Did they use 'relatively'?
Listen to a conversation about travel. How did they describe the flight?
Listen to a teacher explaining a concept. Did they say it was 'relatively easy'?
Listen to a podcast. How many times did they use 'relatively'?
Listen to a product review. Was the product 'relatively cheap'?
Listen to a doctor's advice. Was the risk 'relatively low'?
Listen to a sports commentary. Was the game 'relatively slow'?
Listen to a business presentation. Was the growth 'relatively stable'?
Listen to a friend talk about their job. Is it 'relatively busy'?
Listen to a movie trailer. Did they use 'relatively'?
Listen to a lecture on history. Was the period 'relatively peaceful'?
Listen to a cooking show. Was the recipe 'relatively simple'?
Listen to a tech review. Is the new phone 'relatively expensive'?
Listen to a debate. Did a speaker say 'relatively speaking'?
/ 192 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 'relatively' is a comparative adverb that allows you to describe something not in absolute terms, but in relation to a standard or other similar things. For example, 'relatively cheap' means cheap compared to other items, not necessarily cheap for everyone.
- Used for comparing qualities.
- Means 'fairly' or 'quite' in context.
- Modifies adjectives and adverbs.
- Essential for nuanced descriptions.
Placement
Always place 'relatively' before the adjective or adverb it modifies. For example, 'relatively cold' is correct, not 'cold relatively'.
Avoid Redundancy
Don't use 'relatively' with words that are already comparative, like 'better' or 'faster,' unless you are making a specific point about the degree of comparison.
Synonym Choice
Use 'comparatively' in formal essays to sound more academic, and 'fairly' in casual speech.
Softening
Use 'relatively' to give negative feedback more gently. Instead of 'The food was bad,' say 'The food was relatively disappointing'.
