relatively calm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relatively calm" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being calm in comparison to other situations or states, indicating a moderate level of calmness. Example: "Despite the chaos around them, the team remained relatively calm during the crisis."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In Kentucky, it's (relatively) calm.

The New York Times

Still, the scene was relatively calm.

The New York Times

Stock markets have been relatively calm.

The New York Times

Is this relatively calm response in order?

The New York Times - Health

Around midnight, the city was relatively calm.

The New Yorker

All is relatively calm and refined.

Independent

The markets are relatively calm for now.

The New York Times

Outwardly, the country seems relatively calm.

The New York Times

The rest of the city appeared relatively calm.

Yale University

Except for the bergs, the Scotia Sea is relatively calm.

Columbia University

But they're still relatively calm, roomy and modestly laid out".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "relatively calm" to describe a situation that is calmer than it might otherwise be, or calmer compared to a previous state. It implies a moderate degree of calmness, not necessarily complete tranquility.

Common error

Avoid using "relatively calm" when the situation is completely chaotic or extremely turbulent. The phrase suggests a discernible degree of peace or order, even if it's not absolute.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively calm" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun to indicate a state of calmness that is moderate or comparative, rather than absolute. As shown in the Ludwig examples, it's often used to describe conditions that are less turbulent than expected.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "relatively calm" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a situation that is moderately peaceful or less turbulent than it might otherwise be. Ludwig AI confirms that it is widely used across various reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. When using this phrase, ensure that the context supports a degree of calmness, however small, rather than complete chaos. Alternatives such as "fairly tranquil" or "somewhat peaceful" can be used to convey similar meanings with slight variations in intensity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fairly tranquil

Indicates a state of peacefulness, slightly less intense than "relatively calm".

somewhat peaceful

Describes a state of peace that is present to a certain extent, but not entirely.

moderately serene

Emphasizes a sense of calm and untroubledness, with a focus on emotional or environmental conditions.

reasonably undisturbed

Highlights the absence of disruption or agitation, suggesting a level of expected peace.

comparatively quiet

Focuses on the lack of noise or activity, indicating a contrast with a more turbulent state.

quite placid

Suggests a gentle and undisturbed state, especially regarding water or weather.

rather composed

Refers to a state of emotional or mental calmness, often in the face of stress.

noticeably still

Emphasizes the absence of movement or activity, making the calmness easily observable.

markedly subdued

Indicates a reduction in intensity or activity, resulting in a calmer atmosphere.

mildly tempered

Suggests a moderate level of control or restraint, leading to a less volatile situation.

FAQs

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

You can use "relatively calm" to describe a state that is peaceful compared to expectations or a previous state. For example: "After the storm, the sea was "relatively calm"."

What are some alternatives to "relatively calm"?

Alternatives include "fairly tranquil", "somewhat peaceful", or "moderately serene", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the situation is relatively calm"?

Yes, "the situation is relatively calm" is grammatically correct and commonly used to indicate that a situation is peaceful compared to what might be expected or what it was previously.

What's the difference between "relatively calm" and "completely calm"?

"Relatively calm" implies a moderate degree of calmness, suggesting that it's not entirely without disturbance, while "completely calm" indicates a state of perfect tranquility.