relatively distant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relatively distant" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not close in terms of physical distance, emotional connection, or time, but is still within a certain range. Example: "The two cities are relatively distant from each other, making travel between them more time-consuming."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The data suggest that the SARS virus's closest known, although still relatively distant, relatives are a mouse hepatitis virus and a virus that causes bronchitis in turkeys.

Science Magazine

So much for relatively distant buy-backs.

The Guardian - Sport

Most Americans Think Global Warming Is a Relatively Distant Threat.

Yale University

We'd had a relatively distant professional relationship for many years.

The Guardian

Thus many Americans still perceive global warming as a relatively distant threat.

Yale University

SI outperforms the other approaches particularly where the ungauged site is relatively distant from observation sites.

Journal of Hydrology

Actually, distress was a relatively distant possibility, given that my study and the books were safe.

The Guardian - Books

THE COMMUTE For a neighborhood relatively distant from Manhattan, Gravesend has good public transportation options.

The New York Times

By contrast, Penn was directive and relatively distant with the technical crews, from whom he demanded little spontaneous creativity.

Harvard Business Review

What matters is that the system be high-tech, exclusive and relatively distant from the distractions of patient care.

The New York Times - Magazine

Her Austrian teammate, Alexandra Meissnitzer, who was the favorite and overall World Cup leader, finished a relatively distant second.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "relatively distant", ensure that the context provides a clear reference point for the comparison. For instance, specify what something is distant from to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "relatively distant" without a clear frame of reference. Saying "the location is relatively distant" is less effective than saying "the location is relatively distant from the city center".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively distant" functions primarily as an adjectival modifier, describing a noun by indicating its degree of separation or remoteness. Ludwig AI examples show this usage across various domains, confirming its role in qualifying spatial, temporal, and relational concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

40%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "relatively distant" is a versatile adjectival modifier used to describe something that is separated in space, time, or relationship, but not entirely disconnected. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields like science, news, and academia. When employing this phrase, clarity is key: ensure that the context provides a clear reference point for comparison. Alternatives include "somewhat remote" or "fairly far", depending on the intended nuance. By understanding its function and adhering to best practices, writers can effectively use "relatively distant" to convey nuanced meanings in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat remote

Emphasizes the separation in a more general sense, implying a degree of isolation.

fairly far

Focuses primarily on physical distance, suggesting a considerable separation.

quite removed

Highlights a detachment or disconnection, which can be physical or abstract.

rather isolated

Implies a degree of separation that results in a sense of being alone or apart.

comparatively estranged

Suggests a disruption or weakening of a relationship, either personal or professional.

somewhat distanced

Highlights the act of creating a separation or maintaining a distance.

relatively detached

Emphasizes a lack of emotional involvement or connection.

moderately separated

Focuses on the state of being divided or kept apart to a moderate degree.

marginally disconnected

Indicates a slight or barely noticeable break in communication or association.

slightly peripheral

Suggests being on the edge or outskirts, not central or essential.

FAQs

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

You can use "relatively distant" to describe locations, relationships, or time periods that are not close but still within a certain range. For example, "The two cities are "relatively distant" from each other, making travel more time-consuming."

What are some alternatives to "relatively distant"?

You can use alternatives like "somewhat remote", "fairly far", or "quite removed" depending on the specific context. Each alternative conveys a slightly different nuance of separation or disconnection.

Is it better to use "relatively distant" or "very distant"?

The choice depends on the degree of separation you want to convey. "Very distant" implies a greater separation than "relatively distant". "Relatively distant" suggests a comparison to something else, while "very distant" is more absolute.

Can "relatively distant" be used to describe non-physical things?

Yes, "relatively distant" can describe non-physical things like relationships or time periods. For instance, you might say "They had a "relatively distant" professional relationship" or "The event occurred in the "relatively distant" past".