it's all relative

American  

[its awl rel-uh-tiv] / ˌɪts ˈɔl ˈrɛl ə tɪv /

idiom

1. (used to suggest that something should be considered in comparison to something else and not just on its own).

   We camped on the flattest place we could find (I say flat, but it’s all relative; nothing is actually flat up there).

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Etymology

Origin of it's all relative

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

While his comment makes sense, it’s all relative.

From MarketWatch • May 22, 2026

But he's also keen to point out that it's all relative.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

A pity, since Winston's backup team of Frankie's friends could have been loads of fun, problematic tropes aside — I mean, it's all relative right?

From Salon • Sep. 22, 2023

“I think it’s all relative to the generation of player, and in this particular case, starters aren’t being used like they have been,” Roberts said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 19, 2023

But it’s all relative to the modern NHL, where even repeating once as champion is a major feat given cap-induced roster turnover, faster-paced games and best-of-seven rounds throughout.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 14, 2022