adjective
relative
Considered in comparison with something else rather than on its own.
The team compares the relative costs of the two plans.
Etymology
The source concerns a relation to something else. A relative judgment depends on that comparison instead of treating the thing as independent or absolute.
More examples
- Housing costs are high relative to local wages.
- After the noisy street, we enjoy the library's relative quiet.
- Success is relative: finishing last feels good when you expected to quit.
Forms
relative
relatively adverb — In comparison with something else.
Similar words
- comparative
- Emphasizes comparison, especially when judging amounts, qualities, or advantages.