relatively better

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relatively better" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare something which is small-scale, partial, or incomplete improvement in comparison with a larger-scale improvement. For example, "The new invention was relatively better than the previous one, but it was still far from perfect."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The regions of Coastal Andhra and Rayalseema were relatively better developed and had higher literacy rates.

The New York Times

Between 1947 and 1965, trade relations between India and Pakistan were relatively better.

The New York Times

Yet if Mr Sarkozy looks relatively better, he may soon find he needs to be.

The Economist

On the other hand, if the immigrants had complementary skills, natives would be relatively better off.

The Economist

Big banks fared relatively better.

Forbes

The southern group treats its MW earners relatively better.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

Widowed women with children are relatively better secured.

Environmental Systems Research

Our classifier seems to tolerate such variations relatively better.

EURASIP Journal on Image and Video Processing

The porosity is relatively better in the A section.

Petroleum Science

The reservoir filled with chlorite has relatively better property.

Journal of Petroleum Exploration and Production Technology

It also exhibited relatively better pseudo-activation energy (∼0.08 eV).

Electrochimica Acta

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "relatively better", ensure you clearly define the basis of comparison. What are you comparing it to, and in what specific aspects is it better?

Common error

Avoid using "relatively better" when the improvement is substantial or significant. In such cases, stronger terms like "significantly better" or "much improved" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively better" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, indicating a moderate degree of improvement or superiority. It modifies a noun or noun phrase by specifying that it is better than another, but not necessarily in a dramatic or significant way. Ludwig provides numerous examples across diverse contexts, confirming its consistent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

Relatively better is a valuable comparative phrase used to indicate a moderate degree of improvement or superiority. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used in diverse contexts, particularly in science and news media. When using this phrase, ensure that the basis of comparison is clear and avoid overstating the level of improvement. Alternatives like "somewhat improved" or "slightly preferable" can be used depending on the context. By understanding its nuances and appropriate usage, you can effectively communicate subtle comparisons in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

comparatively improved

Uses "comparatively" to indicate a comparison-based enhancement.

slightly preferable

Emphasizes a mild preference based on a small advantage.

somewhat improved

Highlights a partial advancement or enhancement.

marginally superior

Focuses on a slight degree of improvement.

moderately enhanced

Suggests a medium level of enhancement.

measurably superior

Highlights that the improvement can be quantified.

noticeably advanced

Indicates a clear and perceptible progression.

distinctly advantageous

Stresses a clear benefit or advantage.

a step up

Implies advancement to a higher level.

a cut above

An idiomatic way to suggest that something is superior to average.

FAQs

How do I use "relatively better" in a sentence?

Use "relatively better" to indicate a moderate improvement compared to something else. For instance, "The new model performed "relatively better" than its predecessor in terms of fuel efficiency".

What can I say instead of "relatively better"?

Alternatives include "slightly preferable", "somewhat improved", or "marginally superior" depending on the context and the degree of improvement.

When is it appropriate to use "relatively better" over "significantly better"?

"Relatively better" is suitable when the improvement is moderate or noticeable but not drastic. If the improvement is substantial, "significantly better" is more accurate.

Is "relatively better" formal or informal?

"Relatively better" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its neutrality allows it to fit diverse writing styles, from scientific reports to casual conversation.