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

Economics 101 teaches that international trade is all about comparative advantage.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 26, 2026

"The EU now loses a comparative advantage vis-a-vis other countries, which was what made the deal palatable in the first place," the diplomat told AFP.

From Barron's • Feb. 24, 2026

Lowell and Wallace both understood that the comparative inhospitability of Mars was due to the scarcity of water.

From "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan

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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