Relativ vs. verhältnismäßig
Both relativ and verhältnismäßig describe concepts that are measured by comparison rather than by an absolute standard. While relativ is a broad, general term usually meaning viewed in relation to something else, verhältnismäßig is more specific and implies that something is proportionate or commensurate with a specific scale or set of circumstances.
Relativ
A2This word describes something that relies on a comparison to exist or be defined; it is the direct opposite of absolute. It is used when something is judged compared to a norm or another object. In everyday speech, it is also frequently used to mean somewhat or to a certain degree.
Alles ist relativ, wenn man den Kontext betrachtet.
(Everything is relative if you consider the context.)
Die relative Mehrheit reicht aus, um diese Wahl zu gewinnen.
(The relative majority is sufficient to win this election.)
Wir haben die relative Feuchtigkeit in der Luft gemessen.
(We measured the relative humidity in the air.)
Sein Erfolg ist relativ, da er mit viel Startkapital begann.
(His success is relative since he started with a lot of seed capital.)
Verhältnismäßig
B2This word focuses on the ratio or proportion between things. It describes something that is viewed as appropriate or corresponding when measured against a specific size, effort, or condition. It literally translates to according to the relationship/ratio.
Der Einsatz der Polizei war der Situation verhältnismäßig.
(The police action was relative (proportionate) to the situation.)
Sie leben in verhältnismäßigem Wohlstand, wenn man die wirtschaftliche Lage bedenkt.
(They live in relative affluence if one considers the economic situation.)
Für so ein kleines Auto ist der Kofferraum verhältnismäßig groß.
(For such a small car, the trunk is relatively large.)
Die Kosten müssen verhältnismäßig zum Nutzen sein.
(The costs must be relative (proportionate) to the benefit.)
Summary
Use relativ for general comparisons or to contrast something with absolute (e.g., relative majority, relative truth). Use verhältnismäßig when you want to highlight that something fits a certain ratio, scale, or expectation (e.g., proportionate force, a specific amount relative to the total size).