qualitatively

[ kwol-i-tey-tiv-lee ]

adverb

1. in a way that has to do with the characteristics, properties, or attributes of someone or something: Compare quantitatively ( def ).

   This deal has the potential to usher in a qualitatively different relationship, one not of buyer and seller but of coproducers.

   The study suggests that brain white matter may be qualitatively altered in schizophrenia.

Other Words From

• non·qual·i·ta·tive·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of qualitatively¹

First recorded in 1620–30; qualitative ( def ) + -ly

Example Sentences

Finchelstein perhaps best summed up the contrasting opinion — namely, that Trump and his time are quantifiably and qualitatively different and worse than Trump in this regard — through his analysis of Vance.

From Salon

“But having something that can help throw out a bunch of ideas, and be able to reflect on those, that really feels qualitatively different, and like a real opportunity.”

From BBC

“But these ads seem qualitatively different in how brazen a lot of them are.”

From Los Angeles Times

The reason is that in physics, predictions of mathematical theories are tested quantitatively, not just qualitatively.

From Science Daily

Traditionally, historians have studied these downturns qualitatively, by diving into the twists and turns of individual societies.

From New York Times