Relatively Meaning, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：comparatively (relatively)

relatively 🔊

/ˈrɛl.ə.tɪv.li/

adv

It means 'quite' or 'to some degree', especially when you are comparing it with something else.

Balance scale comparing coins illustrating relatively meaning

comparatively 🔊

➕

/kəmˈpær.ə.tɪv.li/

adv

It means 'to a certain degree when compared with something else', often used to show that something is not absolute but judged in relation to another thing.

📁 Category：Social Economy 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From 'relative' + '-ly'. Latin 'relativus' (re- 'back' + latus 'carried').

💡 Mnemonic

Think of 'relative' - compare two relatives. 'Relatively' means in relation to something else.

📖 Example

The cost of living in this town is relatively low compared to the big city nearby. 🔊 The cost of living in this town is relatively low compared to the big city nearby.

🔗 Collocations

relatively speaking – when considered in comparison to others

relatively simple – simple when compared to something else

relatively few – a small number in comparison

🔄 Synonyms

comparatively (adv) – to a moderate degree when compared

moderately (adv) – to a reasonable extent, not extremely

somewhat (adv) – to some extent, not completely

🚫 Antonyms

absolutely (adv) – without any comparison or limit

totally (adv) – completely, without exception

extremely (adv) – to a very high degree

🌱 Derivatives

relative (adj/n) – considered in relation to something else / a family member

relativity (n) – the state of being relative; especially Einstein's theory

relativism (n) – the belief that truth and morality are not absolute but depend on context

📖 Cultural Story

The word 'relative' entered English in the 14th century from Latin. 'Relatively' became common in the 17th century for comparing things. It is used in economics, science, and daily life to express moderate comparison.