relative
Translation
comparative, in relation to something else, a family member
Examples
We discussed the relative merits of each plan.
We discussed the relative merits of each plan.
He is a distant relative of mine.
He is a distant relative of mine.
Grammar Patterns
relative to ((sth.)) in comparison with something The firm is small relative to its competitors.
a relative of ((sb.)) a family member of someone She is a close relative of mine.
Similar Words
Synonyms (adjective): comparative, proportional; Antonyms: absolute. Synonyms (noun): kin, family member; Antonyms: stranger.
Etymology
From Latin 'relativus' (having reference to), from 'referre' (to relate), from 're-' (back) and 'ferre' (to carry).
Memory Tips
A 'relative' (noun) is someone you 'relate' to. The importance of something is 'relative' (adjective) to other things.