B1adjective2K

Relative

UK /["/ˈrelətɪv/"]/US /["/ˈrelətɪv/"]/

Definition

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.

Examples

  • 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.

Usage notes

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.

Collocations

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

Synonyms

  • comparative

Antonyms

  • stranger
  • non-relative

Common mistakes

  • 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.