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

By assessing areas that are densely populated but relatively underserved by current franchises, this analysis aims to identify the most promising locations for future NBA expansion. —Giovanni Malloy, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025

Though still relatively confidential, Larramendy confirmed that new titles would debut on M6+ Max before traditional broadcast. —Jamie Lang, Variety, 27 Mar. 2025

Someone might view losing their job as a temporary setback and remain relatively calm, while another person might experience the same circumstances as a disaster, triggering intense stress that cascades into serious health problems, such as depression and substance abuse. —Jeffrey Anvari-Clark, The Conversation, 27 Mar. 2025

Even with a wall knocked down to expand the space, the visiting clubhouse is relatively small by Major League standards. —Chad Jennings, New York Times, 27 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing relatively

• relatively prime

Kids Definition

relatively

adverb

rel·​a·​tive·​ly

ˈrel-ət-iv-lē

: somewhat entry 2