relatively arduous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relatively arduous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a task or situation that is somewhat difficult or challenging compared to others. Example: "The project was relatively arduous, requiring more time and effort than initially anticipated."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

There are call centers, staffed by legions of young people pulling relatively arduous shifts, and a number of successful startups grounded in the electronic-music scene: SoundCloud, Ableton, Native Instruments.

The New Yorker

In view of the strew of information, it is relatively arduous to acknowledge the actual installed capacity of power in Ghana.

International Journal of Energy and Environmental Engineering

For instance, an approach to a sacred space may require the believer to cross various thresholds, and perhaps to undertake a relatively arduous journey on account of the topography of the place, as when it is set on a mountain or island.

SEP

It tastes better not despite the relatively arduous process but because of it.

Los Angeles Times

Thanks to the zig-zags, the path is not unusually steep apart from in the initial stages, but inexperienced walkers should be aware that the descent is relatively arduous and wearing on the knees.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Classical chemical mutagenesis screens efficiently generate altered genetic loci but molecular characterization of the altered loci remains relatively slow and arduous.

Briefings in Functional Genomics

However, determining which species is responsible for what function can be an arduous task, since relatively little of the microbial diversity has been functionally characterized.

Plosone

Unlike ES, surgical intervention for GOO which usually involves subtotal gastrectomy or bypass gastrojejunostomy, is not so arduous and can be performed with relatively few complications 0%to10.7%7% [ 14, 15].

BMC Gastroenterology

The application process for supplemental funding is much less arduous than that of the initial grant (with a relatively short turnaround time between application and award).

Science Magazine

For both these sides this was the culmination of an arduous season and the resulting tension perhaps accounted for a relatively mild pace in the opening 20 minutes.

The Guardian - Sport

Too weak to haul heavy sacks of plaster or perform other arduous tasks, the newcomer soon replaces Latif, who resents losing his relatively easy job.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience and the desired tone. While "relatively arduous" is acceptable, more direct synonyms might be preferable for clarity or impact in certain contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "relatively arduous" when the task is genuinely very difficult. Using "arduous" on its own might be more appropriate if the task is exceptionally challenging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively arduous" functions as an adjectival modifier, describing a noun by indicating a degree of difficulty or effort that is not extreme but still considerable. It suggests a moderate level of challenge or exertion.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "relatively arduous" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, denoting something that is somewhat difficult or challenging when compared to other things. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its appropriateness across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science, where a nuanced description of effort is needed. While its usage is uncommon, it provides a precise way to communicate a moderate level of difficulty, making it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary. When using this phrase, make sure that the context provides a reference point, which makes its use valid. For example: "The mountain hike was relatively arduous, but worth the effort."

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat strenuous

Emphasizes the effort required, similar to arduous but with a lighter tone.

moderately challenging

Focuses on the level of difficulty encountered.

fairly demanding

Highlights the requirements and expectations involved.

slightly taxing

Indicates a depletion of resources or energy.

reasonably difficult

Directly states the level of difficulty, maintaining a neutral tone.

comparatively toilsome

Emphasizes the labor involved, using a more formal tone.

kind of grueling

Highlights the exhausting aspect, using a slightly informal tone.

rather laborious

Focuses on the effort and time required, suggesting a longer duration.

somewhat burdensome

Indicates that the task is heavy or oppressive.

relatively tough

Informal way to express that the task is not easy, but not overwhelmingly difficult.

FAQs

How can I use "relatively arduous" in a sentence?

You can use "relatively arduous" to describe a task that is somewhat difficult compared to others, such as: "The hike was "relatively arduous", but the view from the top was worth it."

What are some alternatives to saying "relatively arduous"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "somewhat strenuous", "moderately challenging", or "fairly demanding".

Is it better to say "arduous" or "relatively arduous"?

Use "arduous" when the task is significantly difficult. Use "relatively arduous" when comparing the task to others and highlighting that it is only somewhat difficult in comparison.

What does "relatively" mean in the context of "relatively arduous"?

In this context, "relatively" means "in relation to other things". It indicates that the task is difficult, but not to the highest degree when compared to other possible tasks or experiences.