relatively more expensive

USAGE SUMMARY

"relatively more expensive" is a grammatically correct phrase and can be used in written English.
It is used to compare the cost of something to something else, usually within a specific context. Example: "Although the new phone is relatively more expensive than its predecessor, it offers several upgraded features that make it worth the extra cost."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In general, small systems are relatively more expensive.

Energy Procedia

Its falling value hurts Chinese exports, by making them relatively more expensive than Japanese goods.

The New York Times

A stronger won makes South Korean goods relatively more expensive and less competitive in foreign markets.

The New York Times - Tech

A strong yen makes the country's relatively more expensive and less competitive in foreign markets.

The New York Times

These selected compounds may undergo further test using relatively more expensive experiments or quantum mechanics computations.

Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids

Houses look relatively more expensive than they did 18 months ago.

The Economist

"As interest rates increase, mortgage interest will be relatively more expensive and rental prices will increase," they added.

The New York Times

These being the same everywhere, they are relatively more expensive for the most disadvantaged countries, all other things being equal.

The Guardian

As a result, transporting goods by truck in China is relatively more expensive than doing so in the United States.

The New York Times

Also, our exports would become relatively more expensive unless they are subsidized for the carbon tax burden they carry.

The New York Times

Higher wages make leisure for southerners relatively more expensive: if they take time off they give up more money.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "relatively more expensive", ensure you provide a clear point of comparison to give the phrase context and meaning. For example, instead of saying "This car is relatively more expensive", specify "This car is relatively more expensive than the base model."

Common error

Avoid using "relatively more expensive" without indicating what the comparison is being made to. The phrase loses its meaning if the reference point is unclear or missing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively more expensive" functions as a comparative adjective phrase. It modifies a noun by indicating that it has a higher cost compared to something else. Ludwig examples showcase its use in comparing goods, services, and processes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "relatively more expensive" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to compare the cost of items or services. As Ludwig AI confirms, its role is to provide a comparison, clarifying that something is costlier when contrasted with a specific alternative. The phrase appears frequently in news, scientific, and formal business contexts, indicating its versatility across various registers. To ensure clarity, always specify the basis of comparison when employing this phrase. Understanding its function and application will enhance the precision and effectiveness of your written communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

comparatively pricier

Focuses on price, highlighting the comparison between costs.

more costly in comparison

Emphasizes the aspect of comparison regarding the cost.

at a higher price point

Refers to the specific price level, often used in marketing or sales contexts.

carries a greater expense

Highlights the burden or impact of the higher cost.

more extravagant in relation

Suggests luxury or excess, indicating a significant difference in cost.

markedly higher in cost

Emphasizes the notable difference in cost.

relatively more premium

Implies higher quality and features, justifying the greater expense.

in comparison, a bigger investment

Frames the higher cost as a long-term financial commitment.

demands a larger outlay

Focuses on the initial payment required.

higher end option

Suggests a more sophisticated product at a higher cost.

FAQs

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

Use "relatively more expensive" to compare the cost of one item or service to another. For example, "Organic produce is "relatively more expensive" than conventionally grown produce."

What's a simple alternative to "relatively more expensive"?

Alternatives include "more expensive", "pricier", or "costlier", depending on the context and desired level of formality.

Is it correct to say "relatively more cheap" instead of "relatively more expensive"?

No, "relatively more cheap" is not grammatically correct. The correct phrase is "relatively less expensive" or "relatively cheaper".

What does "relatively more expensive" imply compared to "expensive"?

"Relatively more expensive" implies a comparison, suggesting that something is costlier than something else specifically. "Expensive" simply indicates a high cost in general, without direct comparison.