for the relative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for the relative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to something that pertains to or is intended for a relative, such as family members. Example: "I bought a gift for the relative who helped me during my move."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The reason for the relative stability?

The New York Times

It is love for the relative they're caring for".

The New York Times

Does that compensate for the relative dearth of apps?

The New York Times - Tech

See below to find the details for the relative customer services team for your country.

The Guardian

But the groupings of related objects mostly compensate for the relative silence.

The New York Times - Arts

However grateful for the relative calm, Mogadishu's residents know from experience to brace for something bitter.

The Guardian

One reason for the relative harmony is because many issues were hashed out ahead of time.

The New York Times

There's a reason for the relative isolation of the jazz tent.

The New York Times

Being cramped from above makes you long for the relative peoplelessness of a business lounge.

The Guardian - Arts

They then corrected first for the relative population size, county by county.

The Guardian

Publishers and analysts offer a variety of reasons for the relative strength of the book market.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "for the relative", ensure that the context clearly defines what the relative aspect is. Ambiguity can arise if the point of comparison isn't evident.

Common error

Avoid using "for the relative" when you actually mean "absolute". The phrase implies a comparison, so ensure that a reference point is clearly established.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for the relative" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb, introducing the reason, purpose, or reference point concerning a comparison or relationship. This is demonstrated in examples provided by Ludwig, such as "One reason for the relative harmony" or "How do we account for the relative silence?"

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "for the relative" functions as a prepositional phrase often used to introduce reasons or explanations in comparative contexts. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news, scientific, and business publications indicating a formal to neutral register. When using the phrase, ensure clarity in the comparison to avoid ambiguity. Common errors include misinterpreting the need for a comparative reference. Alternative phrases like "regarding the relative" can provide lexical variation. Overall, understanding the purpose and context is essential for effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

regarding the relative

Switches the preposition to "regarding", emphasizing consideration or relation to the described item.

concerning the relative

Replaces "for" with "concerning", focusing on what the matter is about.

in relation to the relative

Emphasizes the link or association between the main subject and what is being compared.

with respect to the relative

Indicates a specific viewpoint or aspect related to the described item.

pertaining to the relative

Highlights relevance or connection to the described item.

as regards the relative

Similar to "regarding", this emphasizes what is being considered or discussed.

in terms of the relative

Focuses on particular aspects or conditions.

in connection with the relative

Highlights a link or association, often more broadly than other options.

considering the relative

Shifts focus to the act of taking something into account.

relative to the relative

This phrase creates an self-reference structure focusing on relativity between two objects.

FAQs

How can I use "for the relative" in a sentence?

You can use "for the relative" to indicate a relationship or comparison between two things. For example, "They corrected for the relative population size" or "There's a reason for the relative isolation of the jazz tent".

What's an alternative to "for the relative"?

Alternatives include "regarding the relative", "concerning the relative", or "in relation to the relative", depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "for the relative"?

It's appropriate when you want to discuss something in comparison to something else, emphasizing the relationship or proportion between them. For example, describing reasons "for the relative strength" of the book market.

How does "for the relative" differ from "relative to"?

"For the relative" typically introduces a reason or explanation, whereas "relative to" directly compares two elements. For instance, "One reason for the relative civility" versus "The speed relative to the wind".