Relatively

Definition

The term "relatively" describes something in comparison to something else or to a moderate degree.

Parts of Speech

• Adverb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrɛl.ə.tɪv.li/
• Respelling: REL-uh-tiv-lee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈrɛl.ə.tɪv.li/
• Respelling: REL-uh-tiv-lee

Etymology

The word "relatively" is derived from "relative," which originates from the Latin "relativus," meaning "having relation or connection." The suffix "-ly" was added to form the adverb in the late Middle English period.

Derivatives

• Relative (adjective, noun)
• Relativity (noun)
• Relational (adjective)
• Relationally (adverb)
• Related (adjective)

Synonyms

• Comparatively
• Moderately
• Proportionally

Antonyms

• Absolutely
• Completely
• None

Usage

The term "relatively" is used in contexts where comparisons or moderate extents are implied. For example, "This task is relatively easy compared to the previous one" or "She was relatively calm during the meeting."

Related Terms

• Comparison: The act of evaluating similarities or differences.
• Relation: A connection or association between two or more things.
• Proportion: A part or share in relation to a whole.

Detailed Definitions

Adverb

• In comparison with something else: Refers to evaluating or measuring against another standard or example.
  • Example: "The new smartphone is relatively affordable compared to its competitors."
• To a moderate degree: Refers to something that is somewhat or fairly, but not absolutely, true or significant.
  • Example: "The weather has been relatively mild this winter."