1
Measure relative difference
Evaluate one value against another.
Example
Costs fell compared with the previous year.
compared with
/kəmˈpɛəd wɪð/ · kuhm-PAIRD withcomparison phrase
When measured or considered against another case or standard.
Use compared with to signal this exact relationship between ideas: when measured or considered against another case or standard.
What compared with Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Assess cases
Examine similarities and differences between groups.
Example
Urban samples were more diverse compared with rural samples.
3
Set a benchmark
Interpret magnitude relative to a reference.
Example
The change is small compared with natural variation.
Use compared with Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Costs fell compared with the previous year.
Urban samples were more diverse compared with rural samples.
The change is small compared with natural variation.
Precision Matters
Compared with overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
compared with
vs.Signals when measured or considered against another case or standard.
be comparable to
Means be sufficiently similar in relevant respects to permit comparison.
compared with
vs.Signals when measured or considered against another case or standard.
by contrast
Means introduces a clear difference from the preceding case or claim.
compared with
vs.Signals when measured or considered against another case or standard.
as opposed to
Means rather than; in contrast with the alternative named.
compared with
vs.Signals when measured or considered against another case or standard.
relative to
Means in comparison with.
Test compared with in Context
The original design serves as the benchmark for evaluating the revision.
1
___ the original design, the revised bridge uses less material while supporting the same load.