relatively unique

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "relatively unique" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is unique in comparison to other things, but not entirely one-of-a-kind. Example: "The artist's style is relatively unique, setting her apart from her contemporaries while still drawing inspiration from traditional techniques."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Which makes us relatively unique relative to other personal finance apps," he adds.

TechCrunch

Cavendish says it's a "relatively unique operation.

The Guardian

These groups occupy a relatively unique, and fragile, place in the country's political landscape.

Yale University

There are some neuropathic pain syndromes that are rare and relatively unique to the pediatric population.

Stanford University

These cases are indeed exceptions, but they represent responses to relatively unique circumstances.

Cornell University

If you've got broad musical tastes, disposable income and the desire to own something relatively unique, it's a win.

The Guardian - Music

"I would say, at least in my experience, it's a relatively unique idea," Shaker said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Detroit is relatively unique in terms of having a huge debt burden.

The New York Times

The extension process is a relatively unique aspect of the ascus and must be structurally facilitated.

Fungal Biology Reviews

As a result, The Netherlands is relatively unique in practising a strong consensus-driven approach to decision-making.

The Guardian

On Wall Street, Mr. O'Neill has more muscle because he holds what is still a relatively unique job — nonexecutive chairman.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "relatively unique", consider whether the 'relatively' softens the uniqueness too much. If the item is genuinely rare or distinctive, 'unique' or 'distinctive' might be more impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "relatively unique" when the subject is, in fact, completely unique. The 'relatively' implies a degree of comparison, so ensure your usage accurately reflects the subject's singularity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "relatively unique" functions as an adjective phrase that modifies a noun, describing a quality of distinction or uncommonness. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically sound and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

28%

Academia

27%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "relatively unique" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjective phrase that indicates something is distinctive but not absolutely one-of-a-kind. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its application across diverse fields, from news and media to science and academia. While some may argue about the redundancy of "relatively" modifying "unique", its widespread usage suggests it serves to soften the claim of singularity. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is a valuable tool for expressing nuanced distinctions. When employing "relatively unique", writers should ensure that the context justifies the qualifier 'relatively' to avoid overstating uniqueness. Alternatives like "somewhat distinctive" or "fairly uncommon" may be more appropriate depending on the specific degree of uniqueness you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Unique in its own way

Affirms the distinctiveness of something, but in a less comparative sense than "relatively unique".

Somewhat distinctive

This alternative implies a noticeable difference, but perhaps not to the same degree as "relatively unique".

Comparatively rare

This alternative focuses on the infrequency of something when compared to others, while "relatively unique" focuses on its distinctiveness.

Particularly unusual

Highlights the uncommon nature of something, suggesting it deviates from the norm more significantly than "relatively unique".

Distinct to some extent

Highlights the noticeable difference or separation from others, but in a limited way.

Fairly uncommon

Emphasizes the infrequency of something, rather than its distinct qualities, differing slightly from "relatively unique".

Uncommon to a degree

This phrase emphasizes the infrequency of the subject, whereas "relatively unique" focuses more on its individuality.

Moderately exceptional

Suggests something is above average or stands out positively to a certain extent.

Somewhat unparalleled

This alternative indicates something has limited parallels, suggesting a higher degree of uniqueness than "relatively unique" implies.

Slightly atypical

Indicates a minor deviation from the typical or expected, less emphatic than "relatively unique".

FAQs

What does "relatively unique" mean?

The phrase "relatively unique" means something is distinctive or uncommon when compared to similar things, but not necessarily one-of-a-kind. It suggests a degree of uniqueness rather than absolute singularity.

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

You can use "relatively unique" to describe characteristics, methods, or situations that stand out from others. For example, "The company's approach to marketing is "relatively unique" within the industry."

What are some alternatives to "relatively unique"?

Alternatives to "relatively unique" include phrases like "somewhat distinctive", "particularly unusual", or "fairly uncommon". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it redundant to say "relatively unique"?

While some argue that "unique" implies absolute singularity, the phrase "relatively unique" is widely used to indicate something is distinctive in a comparative sense. It's acceptable if you want to soften the claim of uniqueness.