What are the 'relative' advantages of the different methods? [=what are the advantages of each method compared to the others?]
The car might seem expensive, but 'it's all relative'. [=the car is expensive compared to some cars but not to other cars]
I'm a 'relative' newcomer to the area. [=I am not really new to the area but I am more of a newcomer than many people]
(..) She called just to say that? No. She said someone's died-- someone named Alfredo. The funeral is tomorrow. Who is he, a relative? No. Go to sleep. The boy will be my death. How can l say Mass? Lord God, we ask you to be pleased with the sacrifice we offer you with humble and contrite heart. (..)1988 Cinema Paradiso