Relatively Meaning

UK /ˈrɛlətɪvli/
US /ˈrɛlətɪvli/
Word Definition
relatively meaning

Relatively Definition & Usage

adverb

In a way that is compared to something else or is dependent on a specific reference point.

Examples

  • "The new building is relatively small compared to the skyscraper next door."
  • "She was relatively calm during the meeting, considering the tense situation."
  • "The weather is relatively mild this week compared to last month's heatwave."
  • "The task was relatively simple, though it took longer than expected."
  • "This exam is relatively easier than the last one."
adverb

To a moderate or limited degree.

Examples

  • "Her answer was relatively short, only a few sentences."
  • "The movie was relatively successful, but it didn't break any box office records."
  • "The team performed relatively well despite some setbacks."
  • "His health is relatively stable, but he still needs treatment."
  • "The book was relatively well-written, though there were some weak chapters."

Cultural Context

The word 'relatively' comes from the Latin root 'relativus', which means 'having relation or reference'. In modern usage, it plays a critical role in comparisons, often softening statements to convey nuanced views or providing context.

A Matter of Perspective

Story

A Matter of Perspective

As Emily stood on the edge of the hill, she watched the tiny houses below. The view was breathtaking, but what struck her most was how everything seemed so small from this height. She remembered her conversation with Tom earlier that morning. He had described her job as 'relatively simple,' but she had laughed. To her, it was anything but simple. The tasks were challenging, and the expectations were high, but in comparison to some of the projects Tom had handled, it might have seemed that way. 'It's all about perspective,' Tom had said. Emily looked back at the city skyline. She'd heard that phrase many times before, but today it seemed to hold a different weight. As she gazed at the expansive view, everything seemed to fall into place. The little tasks of the day weren't as overwhelming when she viewed them in light of her long-term goals. A small step now might lead to a significant achievement later. Down below, the traffic looked like a slow-moving stream. People rushed through their daily routines, unaware of the broader picture. 'Relatively speaking,' she mused, 'this view gives me clarity. It’s amazing how much you can appreciate from just a different angle.' Tom’s words echoed in her mind, and she realized that the difficulty of her work was, in fact, relative. Yes, it was challenging, but compared to her early days in the profession, it was a far cry from the chaos she had once endured. 'Things really do get easier with experience,' she thought. It was all relative, after all. In that moment, Emily understood something important. Life, like the view before her, was relative. Our challenges, our victories, and our everyday moments all depend on where we stand and how we choose to look at them. Perspective truly makes all the difference.

A Matter of Perspective