respectively to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'respectively to' is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used when a list of items is given and you wish to explain or discuss them in relation to one another in order. For example, “John, Richard, and Mary raised their hands respectively to answer the question.”.

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But opt for a judge and jury and this rises, respectively, to two and five years.

The Guardian - Opinion

The "antique" trams 28 and 128 were built in 1986 and 1987 respectively to look antique.

The Guardian

They answer respectively to the names Dude, Colorado, Stumpy and Feathers.

The Guardian - Film

Leaving behind jobs in education and banking, respectively, to join her father in the family business.

The Guardian - Business

But candidates were also called upon respectively to answer to their perceived weaknesses.

The Guardian - Opinion

Lazard and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett served as financial and legal advisors, respectively, to KeySpan.

The New York Times

His own biographies of Delmore Schwartz and Saul Bellow ran respectively to 417 and 686 pages.

The New York Times

Steve Fee and Bob Curran of Army finished second and third, respectively, to lead the cadets.

The New York Times

The three shot 64, 66 and 65, respectively, to finish at 13-under 197.

The New York Times - Sports

The none‐too‐subtle refer ences were respectively to Mr. Ottinger, Mr. McCarthy and Mr. O'Dwyer.

The New York Times

Species in black and color correspond, respectively, to permanent and seasonal species.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "respectively to" primarily when linking two short, parallel lists. For complex relationships or longer lists, consider rephrasing for better readability.

Common error

Avoid using "respectively to" when the lists you're trying to relate don't have a clear one-to-one correspondence. This can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. Rephrase the sentence to explicitly clarify the relationships.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "respectively to" functions as an adverbial modifier, clarifying the relationship between two or more sets of items mentioned in a sentence. It indicates that the items in each set correspond to each other in the order they are presented, a point supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Academia

34%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "respectively to" is a tool for linking items in lists to each other in a specific order. Although Ludwig AI identifies the grammatical status of the phrase as acceptable, this analysis emphasizes its role in creating clarity, especially in news, academic, and scientific contexts. While alternatives exist for improved elegance, understanding its correct application—linking parallel lists clearly—is crucial. When composing, remember the best practices which are ensure clarity by placing "respectively to" immediately after the lists being related, and use "respectively to" primarily when linking two short, parallel lists.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in that order for each

This alternative clearly specifies that the order of application or relevance is crucial.

correspondingly for each

This implies a direct and specific match between items being considered.

in the order presented

Highlights that the sequence matters and should be followed exactly.

in their respective orders

Emphasizes that elements from different lists are being paired based on sequence.

as previously mentioned for each

Links back to an earlier list or series, making clear there is a defined connection.

in turn

Implies a sequential application or relevance, one after another.

seriatim

A more formal or legal term indicating a sequence or order.

each in its own order

Reiterates that each item follows its distinct sequence or ordering.

in proper sequence

Ensures that the correct order is followed to maintain the relationship.

in succession

Highlights a following of items in uninterrupted order.

FAQs

How can I correctly use "respectively to" in a sentence?

Use "respectively to" when you want to relate items in two lists in the order they are presented. For example, "John and Mary like apples and bananas, respectively to their preferences."

What are some alternatives to using "respectively to"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "in that order for each", "correspondingly for each", or "in the order presented" instead of "respectively to".

Is it always necessary to use "respectively to" when relating two lists?

No, it's not always necessary. If the relationship is clear from the context without it, you can omit "respectively to". However, using it can enhance clarity in some cases.

What is the difference between using "respectively" and "respectively to"?

"Respectively" is generally used to indicate that items relate to each other in the order given. "Respectively to" is similar, but it might be perceived as slightly less formal or more common in certain regional dialects of English. The choice depends on context and desired formality.