contrast

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "contrast" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a comparison between two distinct objects, ideas, or people. For example: The contrast between the two books was vast; one was a simple story of a mouse, while the other was a complex exploration of humanity.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Above all, in Baghdad there was a pervasive air of deskbound caution, buck-passing, and ass-covering, in contrast with the Wild West atmosphere that broke out, for better and for worse, in Saigon in April of 1975.

The Economist

The contrast with Nick Clegg's breakthrough starring role in the 2010 election TV debates couldn't have been more apparent from the start.

The Guardian

In contrast, consumer confidence in the US is rising; for example, the Conference Board's consumer confidence index was up from 40.9 in October, to 55.2 in November to 64.5 in December.

The Guardian - Opinion

Boyfriend-fit tweed jackets worn over pretty floral dresses were charming, and a pinstripe suit paired with a plaid shirt had that smart-casual contrast just right.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

By contrast, thousands of jubilant Kurds flooded the streets of the south-eastern city of Diyarbakir as the results came in.

The Guardian

By contrast Westmorland and Lonsdale, 80 minutes up the M6 from Manchester Central, which recorded 76.9% turnout in 2010 – England's highest – is again bubbling with campaign excitement.

The Guardian

In contrast to the misery in which they trade, Libya's people smugglers make big profits.

The Guardian

Christopher Reid's work, by contrast, I love for its wry and always well-mannered outsider's take on contemporary mores.

The Guardian - Books

The school had no consistent policies for a child with her difficulties and there was a marked contrast between the attitudes of different teachers.

The Guardian

"Yet, in contrast to the tacit official encouragement of more liberal voices after 9/11, any debate within Saudi Arabia over the role of its official creed in fostering the group's extremism has been timid and largely confined to social media... "The Saudi authorities have been quick to condemn Isis.

The Guardian - Opinion

By contrast, we regularly spend more money on local and national roads than on building homes for people.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "contrast" to clearly highlight the differences between two or more subjects. Ensure that the points of comparison are relevant and contribute to a deeper understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "contrast" without specifying what is being compared. For example, instead of saying "The contrast was evident", specify "The contrast between the old system and the new system was evident".

Linguistic Context

The word "contrast" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a difference between things. As a verb, it means to set things in opposition to show their differences. Ludwig AI confirms that "contrast" is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Lifestyle

15%

Opinion

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contrast" is a versatile term that serves as both a noun and a verb, effectively highlighting differences between entities. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. Its frequent use in news and media underscores its importance in clear communication. When using "contrast", ensure that you specify what is being compared to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "juxtaposition" or "distinction" can offer nuanced ways to express difference. Remember, while both "in contrast" and "by contrast" are acceptable, clarity and context are key to effective use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

juxtaposition

Focuses on placing two things side by side for comparison, often highlighting differences.

comparison

A general term for examining similarities and differences.

distinction

Emphasizes a clear difference or separation between two things.

differentiation

Highlights the process of identifying differences.

divergence

Suggests a deviation or moving apart from a common point.

opposition

Focuses on direct conflict or contradiction.

antithesis

Highlights the direct opposite of something.

disparity

Emphasizes a significant difference, often implying inequality.

variance

Indicates a degree of difference or deviation.

dissimilarity

A general term for the state of being unlike.

FAQs

How can I use "contrast" in a sentence?

You can use "contrast" as a noun to refer to a difference, or as a verb to highlight differences. For example, "The "contrast between" the two paintings was striking" (noun), or "The author "contrasts" the two characters effectively" (verb).

What are some synonyms for "contrast"?

Synonyms for "contrast" include "juxtaposition", "comparison", "distinction", and "differentiation". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "contrast" differ from "compare"?

"Compare" generally means to examine similarities and differences, while "contrast" specifically focuses on highlighting the differences. You might "compare" two cars to see what they have in common, but you "contrast" them to emphasize their distinct features.

Is it better to use "in contrast" or "by contrast"?

Both "in contrast" and "by contrast" are grammatically correct and essentially interchangeable. "In contrast" might be slightly more common, but "by contrast" is also widely used and accepted.