relatively obscure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relatively obscure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is not well-known or is less prominent compared to other things, often in a comparative context. Example: "The artist's earlier works are relatively obscure, overshadowed by their later, more popular pieces."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He's relatively obscure.

The New Yorker

Most others are relatively obscure.

The Guardian - Tech

It remained relatively obscure for a decade.

The Economist

That can mean a relatively obscure language is involved, or a relatively obscure disease or a relatively obscure product.

The New York Times

Problems are often based around relatively obscure languages.

Yale University

Smaller or relatively obscure institutions feel slighted by larger rivals.

Columbia University

TR: BP is focusing on a relatively obscure fuel: butanol.

MIT Technology Review

For decades the Fields Medal was relatively obscure.

The New York Times

Once a relatively obscure phenomenon, gerrymandering is having its moment.

The Washington Post

The case began as a relatively obscure dispute.

The New York Times

And his days as a relatively obscure player have ended.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "relatively obscure", consider if a more specific adjective would be more informative. For example, instead of saying a topic is "relatively obscure", you could specify that it is "technically complex" or "historically overlooked".

Common error

Avoid using "relatively obscure" when something is completely unknown. The 'relatively' implies there's some level of awareness, however small. If something is completely unknown, use phrases like "entirely unknown" or "completely unheard of" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively obscure" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that it is not widely known or prominent. This is supported by examples in Ludwig, where it describes various subjects, such as languages, diseases, or institutions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "relatively obscure" is a descriptive adjective phrase used to indicate that something is not widely known compared to other things in its category. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and widely used. It appears most frequently in news and media, but also has a presence in academic and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure the context makes clear what it is being compared to for maximum clarity. Be mindful that the term suggests some level of awareness, so it should not be used when something is completely unknown. Consider using more specific adjectives when applicable and more context to provide a detailed description.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somewhat unknown

Focuses on the lack of familiarity or recognition.

fairly indistinct

Emphasizes a lack of clear definition or prominence.

moderately unfamiliar

Highlights the lack of experience or acquaintance with something.

comparatively little known

Stresses a comparison to other things that are better known.

marginally recognized

Suggests a minimal level of acknowledgement or awareness.

slightly uncelebrated

Implies a lack of praise or fame.

reasonably inconspicuous

Indicates a tendency to avoid notice or attention.

relatively unrenowned

Highlights the absence of widespread fame or reputation.

somewhat off the beaten path

Emphasizes that something is outside the mainstream.

barely noticeable

Focuses on something being almost imperceptible or undetectable.

FAQs

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

You can use "relatively obscure" to describe something that is not well-known compared to other things. For example, "The artist's earlier works are "relatively obscure" compared to their later, more popular pieces".

What are some alternatives to "relatively obscure"?

Alternatives to "relatively obscure" include "somewhat unknown", "fairly indistinct", or "comparatively little known", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When should I use "relatively obscure" versus "completely unknown"?

"Relatively obscure" implies that something is not widely known but still has some recognition, while "completely unknown" suggests a total lack of awareness. Choose the phrase that best reflects the actual level of knowledge.

Is it appropriate to use "relatively obscure" in formal writing?

Yes, "relatively obscure" is appropriate for formal writing. However, ensure that the context provides sufficient information for the reader to understand what is being compared. You might also use alternatives like "moderately unfamiliar" or "slightly uncelebrated", which may sound more formal.