comparative

[kuhm-par-uh-tiv] / kəmˈpær ə tɪv /

ADJECTIVE

approximate, close to

Synonyms

STRONGEST

provisional

STRONG

approaching contingent correlative equivalent like parallel relative

WEAK

allusive analogous by comparison comparable conditional connected contrastive corresponding in proportion matching metaphorical near not absolute not positive qualified related restricted rivaling similar vying with reservation

Antonyms

STRONG

different dissimilar separate unequal unlike

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I was almost graduated from UC Irvine and I was studying English and comparative literature.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 24, 2026

When I graduated from UC–Berkeley with my “useless” comparative literature degree, into one of the bleakest job markets in recent American memory, I thought to myself, There must be a loophole somewhere.

From Slate • Mar. 20, 2026

At heart it has been an exercise in what economists call "comparative advantage" and "agglomeration" - a collection of things.

From BBC • Feb. 14, 2026

Deutsche Bank has maintained a dollar-bearish view for a while, predicated on its declining exceptionalism in terms of its comparative yield advantage, growth prospects and that safe-haven reputation.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 12, 2026

As it turned out, he wound up apologizing for the comparative failure of his effort.

From "Sterling Biographies®: Cleopatra: Egypt's Last and Greatest Queen" by Susan Blackaby

Vocabulary lists containing comparative

Language and Grammar - Introductory

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Expository Writing, List 1

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Language and Grammar - High School

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