Expressing “By comparison” with “xiāngduì láishuō”
相对来说
How it works
相对来说 (xiāngduì láishuō) means “relatively speaking,” “comparatively speaking,” or “by comparison.” It is used when the speaker wants to make a comparison and say that something is true in relative, not absolute, terms.
It is common in careful reasoning and analytical language.
Example sentences
如果从短期效果来看,这个方案未必最好,但相对来说风险更容易控制。
If judged by short-term effect, this plan may not be the best, but comparatively speaking the risks are easier to control.
同样是面对压力,有的人显得非常紧张,而他相对来说要冷静得多。
Faced with the same pressure, some people appear very nervous, whereas comparatively speaking he is much calmer.
在目前所有可选办法当中,这种处理方式相对来说更现实,也更容易被接受。
Among all currently available options, this way of handling things is relatively more realistic and more acceptable.
Key point
相对来说 (xiāngduì láishuō) stresses relative comparison, not absolute judgment.