Relatively/comparatively

Question

Relatively is synonymous to comparatively when they mean 'in or by comparison.'

Some dictionaries say relatively also can mean 'somewhat' or 'about.'

Is this a second definition, or is this dictionairy being lenient towards the way people use the word in everday English?

Also, when we use comparatively, or relatively for that matter, does the thing(s) we are comparing have to be mentioned? I don't think so, but there is no harm in asking, is there.

Thank you

Yankee · Accepted Answer

Hi English 1b3

I'd say 'somewhat' is OK, but it seems to me that the meaning 'about' is an archaic one. (Wasn't it listed in the dictionary as such?)

English 1b3Also, when we use comparatively, or relatively for that matter, does the thing(s) we are comparing have to be mentioned?

No

English 1b3 · Answer

I'd say 'somewhat' is OK, but it seems to me that the meaning 'about' is an archaic one. (Wasn't it listed in the dictionary as such?)

Listed as what? As about or somewhat?

One dictionary defined comparatively as somewhat. Another included both somewhat and about as examples in the thesauraus. To me, there is little difference in meaning between about and somewhat.

If I hear someone say 'This is relatively small' I generally take this to mean (either incorrectly or correctly) 'This is quite/about/rather/kind of small.

Cheers

Yankee · Answer

It is possible to say "This is somewhat small", but I would never say "This is about small".

The word "relatively" apparently used to be used with a meaning similar to "with reference (to)", and I presume that is what they were referring to when they listed "about" as a synonym for "relatively". However, this is archaic (i.e. no longer used).

English 1b3 · Answer

Of course about wouldn't work in that sentence. I Included it by mistake, sorry. Interesting point about the former definition of relatively. Makes sense.

Relatively/comparatively

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