relatively common

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relatively common" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe something that occurs or exists frequently, but not excessively. For example: - "In this region, snowstorms are relatively common during the winter months." - "According to recent studies, obesity is relatively common among children in urban areas." - "While not a rare sighting, golden eagles are relatively common in this part of the country."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Common CNVs were more frequently tagged than relatively common CNVs.

Human Molecular Genetics

Foxes with white patches are relatively common.

Independent

This is a relatively common occurrence.

The New Yorker

In Essex, where I'm from, breast enlargement is relatively common.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Twenty hours was relatively common in a local prison.

The Guardian

But others, including cystic fibrosis, are relatively common.

The Guardian

"Even in areas where they're relatively common, they're not dominant.

The New York Times - Science

Riots were relatively common in Berkeley in those days.

The New York Times

Sexual violence against women in Ethiopia is relatively common.

The Guardian

Seville oranges are also relatively common this time of year.

The New York Times - Food

Mistreatment, including the sexual sort, is relatively common.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "relatively common", ensure that the context provides a clear reference point or comparison. This helps the reader understand what you're contrasting the common occurrence with.

Common error

Avoid using "relatively common" when the subject is actually rare or exceptionally frequent. Be accurate in your assessment of how often something occurs.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively common" functions as an adjective phrase modifying a noun. It describes the extent to which something occurs or exists, indicating that it happens with some frequency but is not necessarily the most frequent occurrence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

48%

Encyclopedias

11%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "relatively common" is a grammatically correct and widely used adjective phrase indicating that something occurs with a noticeable frequency but is not necessarily the most frequent occurrence. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is appropriate for various contexts, maintaining a neutral tone. It is frequently found in Science and News & Media sources. When using "relatively common", it's important to provide a clear reference point for comparison to ensure the reader understands the intended level of frequency. Alternatives like "fairly common" or "quite common" can be used to express similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fairly common

Implies a slightly higher degree of frequency than "relatively common".

reasonably common

Suggests a similar level of frequency, emphasizing that it meets expectations.

quite common

Indicates a slightly stronger sense of frequency compared to "relatively common".

comparatively common

Highlights the frequency in relation to something else being compared.

moderately frequent

Uses 'frequent' explicitly, indicating a noticeable but not overwhelming occurrence.

somewhat common

Emphasizes a slightly lower degree of frequency than "relatively common".

not unusual

Focuses on the lack of surprise or rarity, rather than direct frequency.

occurs frequently

Directly states the frequent occurrence, suitable for formal contexts.

often seen

Highlights the visibility or observability of something.

not uncommon

A double negative emphasizing that it's more frequent than rare.

FAQs

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

Use "relatively common" to describe something that happens or exists with some frequency, but not excessively. For example, "In this area, mild winters are "relatively common"".

What's a good alternative to "relatively common"?

Alternatives include "fairly common", "reasonably common", or "quite common", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "relatively" with "common"?

No, you can simply say "common" if the context makes it clear that you are referring to something that occurs frequently. "Relatively" adds a degree of comparison, suggesting it's more common than some other possibility.

What is the difference between "relatively common" and "very common"?

"Relatively common" implies a noticeable frequency but not to the highest degree, whereas "very common" suggests something occurs almost all the time or is extremely prevalent.