comparative Definition
- 1measured or judged by estimating the similarity or dissimilarity between one thing and another
- 2denoting the form of an adjective or adverb that expresses a higher degree of a quality, for example, 'better' (in relation to 'good') and 'more quickly' (in relation to 'quickly')
Using comparative: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "comparative" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The comparative analysis of the two products showed that the first one was more efficient.
Example
The comparative form of 'good' is 'better'.
Example
The comparative form of 'quickly' is 'more quickly'.
comparative Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for comparative
Antonyms for comparative
- superlative
- absolute
- uncomparable
Phrases with comparative
the ability of a country, company, or individual to produce a particular good or service at a lower opportunity cost than its competitors
Example
The country has a comparative advantage in producing coffee due to its favorable climate.
the study of literature beyond the confines of one particular country, and the study of the relationships between literature and other areas of knowledge and culture
Example
She majored in comparative literature and studied works from different cultures and languages.
a research methodology used in the social sciences and humanities that involves comparing different societies or groups in order to identify patterns and similarities
Example
The comparative method is often used in anthropology to study cultural differences and similarities.
Origins of comparative
from Latin 'comparativus', from 'comparare', meaning 'to pair, match, or compare'
Summary: comparative in Brief
The term 'comparative' [kəmˈparətɪv] refers to something that is measured or judged by comparing it to another thing. It can also denote the form of an adjective or adverb that expresses a higher degree of a quality. Examples include 'The comparative analysis of the two products showed that the first one was more efficient.' and 'The comparative form of 'good' is 'better'.' Phrases like 'comparative advantage' and 'comparative literature' extend the concept into economics and literary studies.
