comparatively

American  

[kuhm-par-uh-tiv-lee] / kəmˈpær ə tɪv li /

adverb

1. in comparison to some other person or thing, or to others in a similar category; relatively.

   Their hamburger was large, flavorful, and served with a decent number of onion rings, for a comparatively low price.

2. in a way that uses or proceeds by comparison.

   The aim of this study is to comparatively examine sun exposure and sun protection behaviors of young children in two urban settings.

---

Etymology

Origin of comparatively

comparative ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Even so, scientists still do not fully understand why these materials work at comparatively higher temperatures.

From Science Daily • Apr. 27, 2026

Budget airline Ryanair said Friday that it would reduce flights to and from Berlin starting in October and relocate aircraft based in the German capital, citing comparatively high costs and taxes.

From Barron's • Apr. 24, 2026

Small, two-stroke engines typically found in go-karts, chainsaws—and Iran’s long-range Shahed drone—are simple and reliable, but can be comparatively bulky and inefficient.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

Sabrina Carpenter famously works late, so it might come as a surprise to some that “Espresso” songstress’ headlining set at Coachella 2026 is comparatively early in the night at 9 p.m.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2026

Especially because we, new to radio astronomy, must be comparatively backward, and the transmitting civilization advanced, it makes more sense for us to listen than to send.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan