a stark contrast between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stark contrast between" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when comparing two things that are very different from each other. For example, "The colors of the sunset were a stark contrast between the orange sky and the deep blue sea."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There's a stark contrast between Barbara Bush and Liz Cheney, daughter of Dick and Lynn Cheney.

The Guardian

In November, Americans will face a stark contrast between their choices for the nation's next president.

The Guardian

Mr. Edwards, scrambling to keep his candidacy alive, tried to draw a stark contrast between his record and Mr. Kerry's.

The New York Times

He said there was a "stark contrast" between the portrayal of Ugandan-born Sentamu and the treatment of other bishops.

The Guardian

Eve, a Bedales student who is currently applying to university, noticed a stark contrast between GCSEs and BACs.

The Guardian

A stark contrast between the high-rise offices of the City and the human scale of the social housing there.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There is a stark contrast between the deteriorating external situation and the continuing progress in internal reforms.

The Guardian - Opinion

GOOD RIDDANCE, WASHINGTON: There is a stark contrast between life in the White House and life at home.

The New York Times - Magazine

"President Clinton drew a stark contrast between himself and President Obama tonight," said Ryan Williams, a campaign spokesman.

The New York Times

New Jersey, USA The Nuffield Council's report draws a stark contrast between the practice adopted in Holland and the approach taken in New Jersey, USA.

The Guardian

Romney opposed the bailout, and Obama's team intends to make it a stark contrast between the two candidates if the former Massachusetts governor wins the GOP nomination.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a stark contrast between", ensure that the elements being compared are clearly defined to maximize the impact of the statement.

Common error

Avoid using "a stark contrast between" for minor or negligible differences; reserve it for comparisons where the distinctions are significant and immediately apparent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stark contrast between" functions as a noun phrase, introducing a comparison that highlights significant and obvious differences. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in various contexts to emphasize disparities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a stark contrast between" is a common and grammatically correct way to emphasize significant differences between two or more things. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, especially in news, media, and scientific writing. When using this phrase, ensure the differences you are highlighting are indeed substantial and obvious to maximize its impact. While suitable for formal writing, avoid using it for minor distinctions. Alternatives like "a sharp distinction between" or "a marked difference between" can be used to achieve a similar effect. Remember to clearly define the compared elements for maximum clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sharp distinction between

Emphasizes a clear and noticeable difference.

a marked difference between

Highlights a noticeable and significant difference.

a clear divergence between

Focuses on the point where things begin to differ or separate.

a significant disparity between

Stresses a considerable inequality or difference.

a profound distinction between

Highlights a deep and significant difference.

a radical difference between

Emphasizes an extreme or fundamental difference.

a notable variance between

Highlights a difference that is worth paying attention to.

a striking dissimilarity between

Focuses on the lack of resemblance in a surprising or impressive way.

a palpable tension between

Suggests a readily perceptible strain or opposition.

a telling comparison between

Implies that the comparison reveals something important or revealing.

FAQs

How can I use "a stark contrast between" in a sentence?

Use "a stark contrast between" to highlight significant differences between two or more entities. For example: "There's a stark contrast between the city and the countryside."

What are some alternatives to saying "a stark contrast between"?

You can use alternatives like "a sharp distinction between", "a marked difference between", or "a clear divergence between" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a stark contrast between" in formal writing?

Yes, "a stark contrast between" is suitable for formal writing as it clearly and effectively conveys a significant difference. Ludwig AI confirms that this is perfectly valid.

What's the difference between "a stark contrast between" and "a slight difference between"?

"A stark contrast between" emphasizes a very noticeable and significant difference, while "a slight difference between" indicates a minor or subtle distinction.