relatively expensive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relatively expensive" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to compare one thing to something else of the same kind, typically to show that one is more expensive than the other. For example, "This laptop is relatively expensive compared to the other models."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

But they're relatively expensive.

The Guardian - Tech

But it is relatively expensive.

The New York Times - Health

Vaccines are also relatively expensive.

The New York Times - Science

The plant itself is relatively expensive.

The Economist

Understandably, the service is relatively expensive.

The New York Times

If TIPS are relatively expensive, so are regular Treasury bonds.

The New York Times

Modified atmosphere packaging slows decay, but is relatively expensive.

The Guardian

WINE LIST International, relatively expensive and rightly focused on reds.

The New York Times - Food

Still, a phone call in Ireland is relatively expensive.

The New York Times

Even getting one with 10% is relatively expensive.

The Guardian - Money

Good TV programming is relatively expensive and difficult to make.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing costs, provide a clear reference point. For example, instead of just saying "This car is "relatively expensive"", specify "This car is "relatively expensive" compared to other models in its class."

Common error

Avoid using "relatively expensive" without specifying what it is being compared to. Without a point of reference, the phrase becomes vague and loses its meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively expensive" functions as a qualifying adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating that it has a higher price compared to something else. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this comparison is essential for the phrase to retain its meaning.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "relatively expensive" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate that something's cost is higher compared to a benchmark. As Ludwig AI points out, this comparison is key. It's frequently used in news, media, and scientific contexts. When writing, be sure to provide context for the comparison to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "somewhat costly" or "moderately priced", but the best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. By understanding the context and potential pitfalls, you can effectively use "relatively expensive" to communicate price points accurately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat costly

Replaces "expensive" with "costly" and "relatively" with "somewhat", softening the statement slightly.

moderately priced

Uses "moderately priced" instead of "expensive", suggesting a balanced assessment of the price.

comparatively high-priced

Substitutes "relatively" with "comparatively" and uses the compound adjective "high-priced" to convey the cost.

on the pricier side

An informal alternative, indicating that something is among the more expensive options.

not exactly cheap

Uses a double negative to imply that something is relatively expensive, albeit indirectly.

a bit dear

Employs "dear" as a British English term for expensive, making the phrase slightly more colloquial.

more expensive than average

Directly states that something exceeds the average price point.

above average in cost

Similar to the previous alternative, it emphasizes the cost aspect over other qualities.

at a premium

Suggests that something costs more due to its superior quality or exclusivity.

carries a higher price tag

Uses a metaphor to convey that something is expensive.

FAQs

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

You can use "relatively expensive" to compare the cost of something to another item. For example, "Organic produce is "relatively expensive" compared to conventionally grown produce."

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

Alternatives to "relatively expensive" include phrases like "somewhat costly", "moderately priced", or "comparatively high-priced", depending on the context.

Is it always necessary to provide a comparison when using "relatively expensive"?

While not always grammatically required, providing a comparison clarifies the meaning of "relatively expensive". Without context, it can be unclear what the item's price is being compared to.

What makes something "relatively expensive"?

Something is "relatively expensive" when its price is higher compared to similar items, alternatives, or a generally accepted price range. This is a subjective assessment and depends on the context.