WordGarden.ioquantitatively
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /kwˈɒntɪtˌeɪtɪvli/
US
- /ˌkwɑntɪˈteɪtəvli/
Meanings
Adverb
by using numerical measurement, data, or analysis
in terms of amount, number, or measurable extent
Beyond the definition
"Quantitatively" means using numbers or amounts to describe, measure, or study something. It focuses on facts and figures rather than feelings or personal opinions. You might describe a painting qualitatively by saying it is beautiful or moving. But you describe its size quantitatively by saying it is 3 feet by 4 feet. Scientists often analyze data quantitatively, looking for patterns and trends in numbers.
Imagine a chef tasting soup. They might say, "This soup is delicious!" That is a qualitative comment. But to make the recipe the same way every time, they need to measure ingredients quantitatively: "Add 2 teaspoons of salt" or "Reduce the broth by half a cup." It is about turning observations into measurable data.
"Quantitatively" describes something that is measured, compared, or explained with numbers or amounts. It is a way of understanding something through objective measurement rather than through personal impressions or descriptive qualities. Think of it as the language of numbers.
We often describe things qualitatively by talking about traits such as color, texture, or feeling. But when we talk quantitatively, we focus on "how much," "how many," or "to what extent." For example, you might say a movie is "exciting," which is qualitative, but you could measure its success quantitatively by looking at box office revenue.
The word often appears in scientific and academic contexts where exact measurement matters. Researchers might quantitatively analyze survey data to find the percentage of people who support a policy, or quantitatively assess the effect of a new drug based on measurable results such as lower blood pressure.
However, it is not limited to science. You can also use "quantitatively" in everyday language. For example, a report might compare two plans quantitatively by showing their costs, time savings, and expected results. Or someone might describe their progress quantitatively by listing the number of books they had read and the miles they had run.
Essentially, if you are using numbers to describe, compare, or analyze something, you are approaching it quantitatively. It is about turning observations into data and giving a clear, measurable understanding.
Examples
- 1
Research measurement
The researchers measured the changes quantitatively.
- 2
Treatment comparison
The report compares the two treatments quantitatively, using recovery time and cost.
- 3
Customer feedback
We discussed the customer feedback first, then evaluated it quantitatively by counting how many people mentioned each problem.
- 4
Testing claims
The idea sounds promising, but it still needs to be tested quantitatively.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Education data
The two schools may seem similar at first, but quantitatively there is a big difference in graduation rates.
See also
Similar
- numerically
- measurably
- in quantitative terms
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
- quantifiably
Used with (collocations)
- quantitatively analyze
- quantitatively measure
- quantitatively assess
- quantitatively compare
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- quantitativelyadverb