comparatively so

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "comparatively so" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing two or more things, indicating that one is relatively true or applicable in comparison to another. Example: "The new model is comparatively so much more efficient than the previous version."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Ms. Harris doesn't make the islanders pure, just comparatively so; they're always guilty with an explanation.

The New York Times

When Banowsky was asked during the conference call why the Miami penalty was comparatively so mild, he gave the classic N.C.A.A. answer: "Each case is different," he said.

The New York Times

The new Harrier, on the other hand, is both cheap (comparatively so, at $83 million each) and doesn't require a full-length runway to operate.

TechCrunch

Although the effective delivery of restored ecosystem services or natural capital is determined by governance and management, these important topics have only rarely been examined (and never comparatively so) in the marine literature.

Ocean & Coastal Management

We live in Massachusetts, where gay marrieds and gay-parented families are comparatively so commonplace that we rarely pause to think about whether we'll be accepted.

Huffington Post

No other major chronic disease, no other leading cause of death devastates so many lives, has no way to prevent, stop or even slow its progress and has comparatively so little funding committed to research to change those outcomes.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The budget is comparatively enormous so they can do these clever things".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Quick investigation proved she was comparatively safe so they continued their work.

The New Yorker

Beyond California, solar-power markets are comparatively small, so thefts are still rare — but they are spreading.

The New York Times - Tech

The local Asian population was still comparatively small, so the class had the added benefit of having fewer students.

The New York Times - Magazine

For instance, closing costs, which are wrapped into the loan, are comparatively high, so borrowers who might move within a few years might wish to find other alternatives.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "comparatively so" to draw a subtle comparison, implying that something is true or applicable to a greater degree when contrasted with something else. This can add nuance to your writing and avoid overly strong claims.

Common error

Avoid using "comparatively so" when a direct comparison is sufficient. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound unnecessarily complex. If a simple 'more' or 'less' will suffice, opt for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "comparatively so" functions as an adverbial modifier, adding a nuance of relativity to a statement. It indicates that a particular quality or condition is true or applicable to a certain degree when viewed in relation to something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "comparatively so" is a grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to introduce a sense of relativity when making comparisons. While not overly common, Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. The analysis of various sources reveals that it appears in news, science, and encyclopedic contexts, highlighting its broad applicability. When choosing between "comparatively so" and similar phrases, consider the subtle differences in emphasis to ensure that your writing conveys the precise meaning you intend. Avoid overuse in simple comparisons, as simpler alternatives like "more" or "less" can often provide greater clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

relatively speaking

Emphasizes that the comparison is made from a specific point of view or frame of reference.

by comparison

Highlights the act of comparing, often to show differences or similarities.

in comparison

Similar to 'by comparison', but may suggest a more detailed or formal comparison.

proportionately so

Focuses on the proportional relationship between the items being compared.

in a relative manner

A more formal way of indicating that the comparison is not absolute.

to a certain extent

Indicates that something is true or applicable only partially, when considering the other thing involved.

to some degree

Similar to 'to a certain extent', but can also suggest that the aspect to which it refers is limited.

correspondingly

Implies a direct and proportional relationship between two things.

similarly

Suggests that something is similar to something else in the given aspect.

analogously

Highlights a similarity between things that are otherwise different.

FAQs

How can I use "comparatively so" in a sentence?

Use "comparatively so" to indicate a relative degree, suggesting something is more or less true when compared to something else. For example, "The budget was small but comparatively so when considering the project's ambition."

What are some alternatives to "comparatively so"?

Alternatives include "relatively speaking", "by comparison", or "proportionately so". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "relatively so" instead of "comparatively so"?

Yes, "relatively so" is a valid alternative and conveys a similar meaning. Both phrases suggest that a statement is true or applicable in a relative, rather than absolute, sense.

What's the difference between "comparatively so" and "relatively so"?

The phrases are largely interchangeable. However, "comparatively so" might slightly emphasize the act of comparing, while "relatively so" focuses more on the relative nature of the statement itself.