in relation to

phrase

formal
1
used to compare to the size, shape, or position of (some other part of the same thing)
The monkey's eyes are large in relation to its head.
2
used to talk about what something is like by seeing how it is related to something else
understanding literature in relation to history
3
: about (something or someone) : in reference to
I have several comments to make in relation to the subject at hand.

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“In relation to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/in%20relation%20to. Accessed 16 Mar. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster