# relatively

/ˈɹɛɫətɪvɫi/ (US) · /ɹˈɛlətˌɪvli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/relatively
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. compared to others

adverb · CEFR B2 · General-service

used to describe a quality when you compare it to something else or to what is normal.

For teachers: in a comparative manner; used to qualify a statement by comparing it to a general standard or specific context.

- The exam was relatively easy compared to the one we took last month.
- While the initial investment was high, the long-term maintenance costs remained relatively low for a machine of this complexity.

Usage: Typically modifies adjectives or other adverbs to provide a comparative context.

### 2. somewhat or fairly

adverb · CEFR B2 · General-service

to a certain degree, but not extremely.

For teachers: to a moderate degree; used as a submodifier to indicate 'fairly' or 'quite'.

- I am relatively new to this city, so I still use a map to find my way.
- The results of the pilot study were relatively successful, though the researchers noted several areas requiring further refinement.

Teaching tip: In academic writing, 'relatively' is preferred over 'fairly' or 'pretty' to express a moderate degree.

## Examples

- The exam was relatively easy compared to last year.
- Despite the heavy rain, the city center remained relatively dry due to the new drainage system.
- While the initial investment was substantial, the long-term maintenance costs are relatively low when measured against the projected lifespan of the infrastructure.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.