relatively near

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relatively near" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is close in distance or time compared to other things, but not extremely close. Example: "The nearest gas station is relatively near, just a few blocks away from here."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

11, 2001, levels in the relatively near future".

The New York Times

The pollution drifts across the country with prevailing winds but falls relatively near home.

The New York Times

The fact is that predicting the relatively near future has always been a hazardous business.

The Guardian

But in the relatively near future, these losers are going to be identified.

The Guardian

But the new reports offer detailed assessments of vulnerability in the relatively near term.

The New York Times - Science

Numerous predictions say that the world will end in the relatively near future.

The Guardian

We certainly hope to be in a position to announce something in the relatively near term".

The New York Times

They'll have more than Great Britain sometime in the — in the relatively near future.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Krueger described BMW's relatively near-term strategy as containing "both evolutionary and disruptive elements".

TechCrunch

This is an area where Magic Leap could be poised to find some relatively near-term success.

TechCrunch

Concerns about bio-error and bio-terror are relatively near-term -- within 10 or 15 years.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "relatively near" to indicate a moderate level of proximity, whether in distance or time, avoiding exaggeration. For example, "The event is relatively near, so we should start planning soon."

Common error

Avoid using "relatively near" when something is extremely close or imminent. Overusing the phrase can dilute its meaning. If something is directly next to something else, describe the actual distance for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively near" functions primarily as an adverbial modifier, specifying the degree to which something is close in proximity (either spatial or temporal). Ludwig shows numerous examples of its use in modifying nouns and verbs, indicating the closeness of one entity to another.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

28%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "relatively near" is a versatile and commonly used adverbial modifier indicating a moderate degree of proximity, either in space or time. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread application across various contexts, as evidenced by the numerous examples sourced from reputable news outlets, scientific publications, and encyclopedias. When using "relatively near", it's important to ensure that the described entity is indeed moderately close, avoiding overstatement or redundancy. Consider alternatives like "fairly close" or "nearby" depending on the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearby

A simpler, more direct term for being close.

fairly close

Indicates a degree of closeness that is somewhat less precise than "relatively near".

reasonably proximate

Implies a more formal and technical assessment of nearness.

in close proximity

Emphasizes the condition of being located very close together.

within the vicinity

Highlights being in the general area or neighborhood.

not far off

Suggests an estimated distance or time that is not considerable.

just around the corner

A more idiomatic expression implying something is very close and easily accessible.

a stone's throw away

An informal idiom for a short distance.

within reach

Highlights accessibility, either physical or metaphorical.

in the short term

Focuses on proximity in time rather than space.

FAQs

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

Use "relatively near" to describe something that is moderately close in distance or time. For example, "The park is "relatively near" the hotel, just a ten-minute walk away."

What's the difference between "relatively near" and "nearby"?

"Nearby" indicates a close proximity without specifying the degree. "Relatively near" suggests a proximity that is moderate compared to other possibilities or a general expectation. Consider "The town is "nearby"" versus "The town is "relatively near" compared to the capital city."

What can I say instead of "relatively near"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "fairly close", "reasonably proximate", or "in close proximity". Choose the phrase that best reflects the specific degree of nearness you wish to convey.

Is "relatively near future" redundant?

While "relatively near future" is commonly used, it can sometimes be considered slightly redundant, as "near future" already implies a certain proximity in time. Consider using just "near future" or rephrasing for conciseness.