in sharp contrast

USAGE SUMMARY

It is a commonly used phrase and is considered to be correct in written English.
You can use it when you want to express a sharp contrast or difference between two things. For example: The two approaches to solving the problem are in sharp contrast.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Vietnam, in sharp contrast to China, allows Facebook and Google.

Yale University

This pattern stands in sharp contrast to previous decades.

University of California, Berkeley

That's in sharp contrast to the private equity world.

Harvard Business Review

That's in sharp contrast to other strategic approaches.

Harvard Business Review

In sharp contrast, Donald Trump's plan is growth-inducing.

The Washington Post

Their thinking is in sharp contrast to today's mainstream economists.

The Guardian - Opinion

His patience stood in sharp contrast to Nathan's disparagement.

The New Yorker

In sharp contrast, the dead man's mother is almost silent.

The Guardian

But that's in sharp contrast to what's available on television".

The New York Times - Arts

Europe's difficulties are in sharp contrast to the American response.

The New York Times

In sharp contrast black respondents acknowledged a global African affinity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing "in sharp contrast", ensure that the elements being compared are clearly defined. This strengthens the comparison and avoids ambiguity for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "in sharp contrast" when the differences between subjects are subtle or negligible. This phrase is most effective when the disparities are substantial and impactful, so using it for minor differences can weaken your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in sharp contrast" functions as an adverbial phrase, primarily used to introduce a statement that differs significantly from a previous one. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

24%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

4%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in sharp contrast" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase used to emphasize significant differences. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its correctness, indicating it's suitable for various writing contexts, particularly news, scientific, and academic content. The phrase serves to highlight notable disparities, ensuring clarity and impact. While alternatives exist, "in sharp contrast" effectively underscores substantial differences, making it a valuable tool for precise and impactful communication. Common errors include overuse in situations where the differences are negligible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the other hand

Introduces a contrasting point of view or aspect.

conversely

Introduces a statement or idea that reverses the one just made.

on the contrary

Offers a direct contradiction or reversal of what was previously stated.

in opposition to

Highlights a conflicting or opposing element.

quite the opposite

Highlights a complete reversal or antithesis.

by way of opposition

Uses a more literary tone, suggesting a direct counterpoint.

differing greatly

Emphasizes the extent of the disparity or divergence.

in distinction to

Highlights differences and distinctions between two things.

as an alternative

Presents another option, choice, or course of action.

by comparison

Introduces an instance of comparing two things to show their dissimilarity.

FAQs

How can I use "in sharp contrast" in a sentence?

Use "in sharp contrast" to highlight a significant difference between two things. For example, "His optimism was "in sharp contrast" to her pessimism".

What phrases are similar to "in sharp contrast"?

Alternatives to "in sharp contrast" include "on the other hand", "conversely", or "by contrast". Each option offers a slightly different nuance in conveying opposition.

Is it better to use "in sharp contrast" or "in stark contrast"?

Both "in sharp contrast" and "in stark contrast" are correct and convey a strong difference. "In stark contrast" may emphasize a more severe or shocking difference, but the choice often depends on stylistic preference.

What's the difference between "in contrast" and "in sharp contrast"?

"In contrast" simply indicates a difference, while "in sharp contrast" emphasizes a significant or striking difference. The addition of "sharp" intensifies the level of dissimilarity.