comparatively speaking

USAGE SUMMARY

"comparatively speaking" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is used to introduce a statement that compares one thing to something else. For example, "Comparatively speaking, I prefer the taste of this wine over that one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Comparatively speaking, yum.

The Guardian

Comparatively speaking, "Nashville" was a safer choice.

The New York Times - Magazine

So comparatively speaking, it is moderately priced.

The New York Times - Travel

Comparatively speaking, the show was grittier still.

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Santorum is a fresher face, comparatively speaking.

The New York Times

"Comparatively speaking, that's not bad," Mr. Miller said.

The New York Times

The Palestinians are, comparatively speaking, ahead of the game.

The New York Times

My point is simply that, comparatively speaking, there is hope.

The New York Times

Comparatively speaking, NQ coating showed more beneficial effects than AP coating.

Combustion and Flame

And comparatively speaking, CS-NAC-NLC possesses the highest potential for ocular drug delivery.

European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

And to think--comparatively speaking, this is "good" Black mothering by typical Hollywood standards.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure the comparison being made is clear to the reader. Vague comparisons can weaken the impact of the phrase. Be specific about what is being compared.

Common error

Avoid using "comparatively speaking" when the intent is to provide an absolute statement rather than a relative one. Ensure the context necessitates a comparison to something else; otherwise, a simpler declarative statement may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "comparatively speaking" functions as an adverbial phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it introduces a comparison, setting the stage for a statement that qualifies or contextualizes information by relating it to something else. It modifies the sentence by indicating the perspective from which the statement should be evaluated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "comparatively speaking" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce a comparison that provides context and perspective. As Ludwig AI explains, it sets the stage for a statement that qualifies information by relating it to something else. It is grammatically correct, very common, and applicable in various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal communications. Remember to use it when you want to clarify the scale or degree of a characteristic and ensure that the comparison is clear to your audience. While the phrase is flexible, avoid using it when an absolute statement is more appropriate. "Relatively speaking", "by comparison", and "in relation to" are potential alternatives, depending on the specific nuance needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

relatively speaking

Emphasizes the degree of comparison against a specific reference point.

by comparison

Highlights the act of comparing two or more things.

in comparison

Similar to "by comparison", but can also introduce an element of contrast.

when compared to

Explicitly states the comparison, often used in more formal contexts.

considering

Introduces a statement that takes something into account when making a judgement.

in contrast

Emphasizes the differences between two things.

on the other hand

Presents an alternative perspective, often used to show a comparison.

by way of comparison

More formal way of introducing a comparison.

in relation to

Indicates a comparison based on a specific relationship or connection.

assessed against

Suggests a more formal or analytical comparison.

FAQs

How do I use "comparatively speaking" in a sentence?

Use "comparatively speaking" to introduce a statement that is making a comparison. For example, "Comparatively speaking, the cost of living here is lower than in New York City."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "comparatively speaking"?

Alternatives include "relatively speaking", "by comparison", and "in relation to". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to explicitly state what is being compared when using "comparatively speaking"?

While not always grammatically required, clarifying the comparison enhances understanding. If the context doesn't make the point of comparison obvious, state it explicitly to avoid ambiguity.

What's the difference between "comparatively speaking" and "in comparison"?

"Comparatively speaking" is a more general introductory phrase for comparisons. "In comparison" tends to highlight a more direct and often contrasting relationship between two specific subjects.