relative to

preposition

: with regard to : in connection with

Examples of relative to in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And higher oil prices are one of the factors pushing interest rates up, making bonds more attractive relative to gold. — Cooper Katz McKim, NPR, 6 Nov. 2026 In IconArrows pointing outwards As the chart shows, AI has wobbled relative to the rest of the market during this uptrend before reasserting itself. — Michael Santoli, CNBC, 3 Nov. 2026 The value of a life insurance policy, like any other insurance coverage, however, is relative to the policyholder, their financial circumstances and their goals. — Matt Richardson, CBS News, 2 Nov. 2026 Bichette didn’t have the strongest season, relative to his history. — Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 29 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for relative to

Word History

First Known Use

1649, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of relative to was in 1649

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Relative to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/relative%20to. Accessed 10 Nov. 2026.

Kids Definition

relative to

preposition
: in relation to
the angle of the pole relative to the ground
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