relatively speedy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relatively speedy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is fast or quick in comparison to other options or standards. Example: "The delivery service was relatively speedy, arriving just two days after the order was placed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Goodbye to relatively speedy answers.

The Guardian

At that rate, he is relatively speedy.

The New York Times

Film's gratifications are relatively speedy and immediate, while Proust's novel preaches the infinite pleasures of deferral.

The New York Times

But even that relatively speedy track could mean a decision might not come until the fall.

The New York Times

Money-saving tips If you want a relatively speedy sale, then it's important to hire a reliable solicitor.

Independent

Fortunately, the island's diminutive size – it is half the size of Wales – means that getting to the sights is a relatively speedy business.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

But many Democrats, while hoping for a speedy, relatively amicable resolution, are bracing for a rough contest that could last a good while.

Los Angeles Times

Pneumonia and gastrointestinal infections — ­relatively speedy killers — were among the leading causes of death.

The New York Times - Books

If we're going to keep carrying out the death penalty in this country and if we are going to continue to grandly insist that they are "humane executions" then only a return to a firing squad will insure a speedy and relatively pain free death for the condemned.

Huffington Post

He held costs down by speedy production methods, relatively low land costs per apartment and mass buying of building supplies.

The New York Times

By using both paper and digital copies, the AccuVote promised Cuyahoga an election that would be speedy, reliable and relatively inexpensive.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "relatively speedy" when you want to indicate that something is faster than a typical or expected pace, but not exceptionally so. It is useful for setting expectations that are realistic.

Common error

Avoid using "relatively speedy" excessively, especially in contexts where a more direct term like "quick" or "fast" would suffice. Overuse can make your writing sound verbose. Consider if the "relatively" part is truly necessary to add nuance or if it just adds unnecessary length.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively speedy" functions as a pre-modifying adjective phrase, used to qualify a noun. It indicates that something possesses a degree of speed that is higher than average or expected but not exceptionally high. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

24%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "relatively speedy" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed adjective phrase, used to describe something that is faster than average but not exceptionally so. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and scientific writing. When using this phrase, consider if the "relatively" is crucial for nuance or if a simpler adjective would suffice. Semantically related alternatives include "moderately quick" and "fairly fast". This analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the phrase's usage, style, and potential alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moderately quick

Indicates a speed that is neither slow nor exceptionally fast, emphasizing the moderate aspect.

fairly fast

Highlights the speed is above average but not extreme.

reasonably rapid

Emphasizes speed that meets expectations or requirements, with a tone of approval or satisfaction.

comparatively quick

Stresses the speed in relation to a specific point of comparison, making it faster in relation to something else.

somewhat swift

Suggests a noticeable but not overwhelming speed, with a slightly more formal or literary tone.

moderately swift

Similar to "moderately quick", but "swift" sounds slightly more elegant and less common.

quite prompt

Emphasizes the immediacy and lack of delay, implying efficiency and good service.

rather brisk

Suggests an energetic and efficient pace, particularly suitable in describing processes or activities.

pretty fast

More informal and casual, indicating a speed that is appreciable and noticeable.

adequately fast

Focuses on meeting a necessary speed requirement, implying satisfactory but not exceptional performance.

FAQs

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

You can use "relatively speedy" to describe a process, action, or recovery that is faster than average but not exceptionally quick. For example, "The "relatively speedy recovery" of the transport services was due to careful preparation".

What are some alternatives to "relatively speedy"?

Some alternatives include "moderately quick", "fairly fast", or "reasonably rapid". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "relatively speedy" formal or informal?

"Relatively speedy" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in very formal writing, you might consider more precise or technical language.

What does "relatively" add to the meaning of "speedy"?

The word "relatively" softens the assertion of speed, indicating that it is fast in comparison to something else but not necessarily fast in an absolute sense. It provides a comparative context.