the relatively

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the relatively" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when comparing something in relation to another thing, often to indicate a degree of difference or similarity. Example: "The relatively high temperatures this summer have surprised many meteorologists."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

First, among the relatively rich.

The Economist

That, however, was the relatively easy part.

The Economist

So why the relatively early exit?

The New Yorker

The relatively small crowd began chanting: "Romney!

The New York Times

Jimm is the relatively competent one.

The New York Times - Books

The relatively small total shouldn't suprise us.

The Guardian - Books

So did Clinton's personal unpopularity and the relatively low turnout.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mediocre reviews ensured the relatively brief Broadway run.

The New York Times

He loves the relatively clean air and the personal space.

The Guardian

The relatively weedy intellectual decided to attend the local gym.

The Guardian - Books

The relatively young people studied deny discomfort with this.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "the relatively", ensure the sentence provides enough context for the reader to understand the basis of the comparison. Avoid vagueness by ensuring the implicit standard is clear.

Common error

Avoid using "the relatively" too frequently in formal academic or business writing, as it can sometimes sound vague or imprecise. In these contexts, consider providing explicit comparisons or using more specific language to convey your meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the relatively" functions as an adverbial modifier, subtly introducing a sense of comparison or degree. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the adverbial phrase "the relatively" is a common and grammatically sound way to express comparisons subtly, as affirmed by Ludwig AI. It's frequently found in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. While versatile, it should be used judiciously in very formal writing to avoid vagueness. Related phrases like "the comparatively" or "the somewhat" can offer more precise comparisons. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively use "the relatively" to add depth and context to their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the comparatively

Replaces "relatively" with "comparatively", maintaining a similar sense of comparison but potentially implying a more direct contrast.

the somewhat

Substitutes "relatively" with "somewhat", indicating a moderate degree of difference or quality.

to a certain extent

Offers a broader way of expressing a limited degree, rather than a direct comparison.

in comparison with

Emphasizes the act of comparing one thing to another, where "relatively" implies an understood comparison.

in proportion to

Highlights the proportional relationship, which might be implied but not explicit with "the relatively".

by comparison

Functions as a conjunctive adverb, explicitly drawing a contrast.

when compared to

Introduces an explicit comparison, unlike the implicit nature of "relatively".

considering

Highlights an element that should be considered when making an assessment or judgment.

given

Implies that a particular condition or factor influences the scale.

in light of

Emphasizes a specific perspective or context that affects the assessment.

FAQs

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

Use "the relatively" to indicate a comparison where something is being measured or evaluated against an implied standard. For example, "The city has "the relatively low crime rate" compared to other major urban areas".

What are some alternatives to "the relatively"?

You can use alternatives like "the comparatively", "the somewhat", or "to a certain extent" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "the relatively" or "relatively"?

Using "the relatively" often implies a more specific comparison to a known or understood standard, whereas "relatively" can be more general. The choice depends on the context and the level of specificity required.

When is it appropriate to use "the relatively" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "the relatively" when you want to subtly introduce a comparison without explicitly stating the reference point, relying on the reader's understanding of the context. Avoid it when clarity demands an explicit comparison.