relatively

adverb

rel·​a·​tive·​ly ˈre-lə-tiv-lē 

: to a relative degree or extent : somewhat

a relatively small group of people

relatively cool weather

The house is relatively new.

Phrases

relatively speaking

1

: when compared to others that are similar

The procedure was quick, relatively speaking.

Relatively speaking, the movie wasn't bad.

2

—used to say that something is true or correct as a general statement even if it is not entirely true or correct

The trip was, relatively speaking, a disaster.

Synonyms

• enough
• fairly
• kind of
• kindly [chiefly Southern]
• like
• moderately
• more or less
• pretty
• quite
• rather
• something
• somewhat
• sort of

Examples of relatively in a Sentence

these newly acquired in-laws felt relatively comfortable at our family reunion

Recent Examples on the Web

Share [Findings] Psychopaths recommend harsher punishments for homicides, whether accidental or motivated by profit, but exhibit relatively low concern about killing in general. —Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harper's Magazine, 17 July 2024

Checking provenance is relatively straightforward on the primary market, where collectors buy from a living artist’s studio or representative, but less so on the secondary market, which refers to the resale of works. —Lucy Handley, CNBC, 17 July 2024

Besides being relatively lightweight, this chainsaw boasts an ergonomic rubberized grip handle and a large trigger switch. —Maya Polton, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 July 2024

ChargePoint, a company with a relatively new chief executive that’s trying to climb out of a bad reputation. —Russ Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 17 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing relatively

• relatively prime
• relatively speaking

Kids Definition

relatively

adverb

rel·​a·​tive·​ly

ˈrel-ət-iv-lē

: somewhat entry 2