measured or judged by estimating the similarity or dissimilarity between one thing and another; relative

he returned to the comparative comfort of his own home

involving the systematic observation of the similarities or dissimilarities between two or more branches of science or subjects of study

comparative religion

(of an adjective or adverb) expressing a higher degree of a quality, but not the highest possible (e.g. braver; more fiercely)

a comparative adjective or adverb