draw a contrast between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "draw a contrast between" is correct and used in written English.
You can use this phrase to compare two unlike things or to point out the differences in their qualities. For example, "We can draw a contrast between classical and modern music to identify their unique sounds and structures."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

Characters draw a contrast between caring for flowers and fish and the callous treatment of prisoners.

The New York Times

Yet on Tuesday she managed to draw a contrast between the two candidates, elliptically.

The New York Times

Draw a contrast between what others might expect you to do and what you're really trying to do.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Rubio is also trying to draw a contrast between his readiness to be commander in chief and Trump's.

The Washington Post

Mr. Gibbs seemed to draw a contrast between Mr. Obama's trip abroad as a candidate with that of Mr. Romney.

The New York Times

But he is seeking to draw a contrast between his clear positions on such issues as trade with his opponent's nuanced statements.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

He drew a contrast between the illegal activities of the past and current C.I.A. practices, which he insists are lawful.

The New York Times

He delights in drawing a contrast between the flashiness of Wall Street and his nondescript midtown Manhattan offices.

The Economist

He also drew a contrast between the city's willingness to finance a gay choral group but not the more confrontational Esperanza project.

The New York Times

Drawing a contrast between Mr. Lazio and Mrs. Clinton, she said he "understands what it means to be a New Yorker.

The New York Times

But he drew a contrast between the way Mr. Bloomberg had won, and the way his two predecessors had come into office.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "draw a contrast between", ensure that the differences you are highlighting are significant and relevant to your overall argument or analysis.

Common error

Avoid exaggerating the differences to the point where it misrepresents the subjects being compared. Ensure the comparison remains balanced and fair.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "draw a contrast between" functions as a verb phrase used to highlight differences. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it introduces comparisons emphasizing distinctions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "draw a contrast between" is a versatile tool for highlighting differences, frequently used in news, academic writing, and encyclopedic contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and serves to clarify understanding by emphasizing distinctions. When employing this phrase, focus on significant and relevant differences to maintain a balanced comparison. Alternatives include "highlight the differences between" and "distinguish between". Remember, the goal is to inform or persuade through clarity and well-supported distinctions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contrast with

Simple and direct, focusing on the act of contrasting.

highlight the differences between

Focuses on making the dissimilarities more noticeable.

make a distinction between

Highlights the act of creating a clear differentiation.

distinguish between

Emphasizes the act of recognizing or pointing out differences.

differentiate between

Stresses the process of identifying what sets things apart.

compare and contrast

Suggests a more balanced approach of noting both similarities and differences but with a focus on differences.

set in opposition to

Implies a deliberate placement of items to show contrast.

juxtapose with

Indicates placing items side by side for contrasting effect.

establish a dichotomy between

Implies creating a division into two mutually exclusive categories.

oppose to

Emphasizes direct opposition or contrast.

FAQs

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

You can use "draw a contrast between" to highlight the differences between two or more things. For example, "The author "draws a contrast between" the protagonist's past and present selves."

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

Some alternatives to "draw a contrast between" include "highlight the differences between", "distinguish between", or "differentiate between".

Is there a subtle difference in meaning between "draw a contrast between" and "make a distinction between"?

While both phrases involve pointing out differences, "draw a contrast between" often implies a more pronounced or striking difference, while "make a distinction between" can refer to more subtle differences.

When is it appropriate to use "draw a contrast between" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "draw a contrast between" when you want to emphasize the dissimilarities between two subjects to strengthen your argument or provide clarity. For example, you could "draw a contrast between" two different approaches to solving a problem.