B1adjective2K

UK/["/ˈrelətɪv/"]/US/["/ˈrelətɪv/"]/

Meaning of Relative

considered and judged by being compared with something else

In simple words: A person who is connected to you by blood or marriage, like a family member.

Relative in a sentence

  • My cousin is a relative who always visits during the holidays.
  • In this context, the terms are relative and can change based on perspective.
  • She explained how the temperatures were relative, depending on the time of year.
  • We had a family reunion and met many new relatives we hadn't known before.
  • The idea of beauty is relative; what one person finds beautiful, another may not.

How to use Relative

Use 'relative' to refer to family members in a general sense. In formal contexts, it's suitable to discuss familial connections; in informal settings, it's often used casually. Avoid using it for non-familial connections.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'relatives' as 'relate to' — they’re the people you relate to by family ties.

Related words

Collocations with Relative

  • close relative
  • distant relative
  • family relative
  • immediate relative

Synonyms for Relative

Opposites of Relative

Common mistakes with Relative

  • Confusing 'relative' with 'relation'; 'relation' is broader and can refer to non-family connections.
  • Using 'relatives' incorrectly as 'relativities', which is not a proper term.

Relative appears in

Relative in other languages

More words like Relative

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Frequently asked questions about Relative

What does Relative mean?

A person who is connected to you by blood or marriage, like a family member.

What is the definition of Relative?

considered and judged by being compared with something else

How do you use Relative in a sentence?

My cousin is a relative who always visits during the holidays.

Can you give another example of Relative?

In this context, the terms are relative and can change based on perspective.

What are synonyms for Relative?

Common alternatives include comparative.

What is the opposite of Relative?

Opposite meanings include stranger, non-relative.

What words go with Relative?

It commonly pairs with close relative, distant relative, family relative, immediate relative.

What are common mistakes when using Relative?

Confusing 'relative' with 'relation'; 'relation' is broader and can refer to non-family connections. Using 'relatives' incorrectly as 'relativities', which is not a proper term.

How do you pronounce Relative?

US: /["/ˈrelətɪv/"]/, UK: /["/ˈrelətɪv/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Relative?

Use 'relative' to refer to family members in a general sense. In formal contexts, it's suitable to discuss familial connections; in informal settings, it's often used casually. Avoid using it for non-familial connections.

What CEFR level is Relative?

"Relative" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.