jarring juxtaposition

USAGE SUMMARY

'jarring juxtaposition' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe an unsettling comparison between two people, objects, or ideas that seem to not fit together or that are very different from one another (i.e. a juxtaposition). For example, "The jarring juxtaposition between the man's poverty and the woman's lavish luxury was striking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

It made for a jarring juxtaposition with this earnest talk of bureaucratic reform.

The New York Times

A jarring juxtaposition, indeed – one celebrating death, the other revering life.

The Guardian - Opinion

The jarring juxtaposition of the words entertained him for a week as he wondered what it could be.

The New Yorker

"It was a reaction to the jarring juxtaposition of new and old," said Mr. Levine, the planning commissioner.

The New York Times

The result is a jarring juxtaposition of history, nature and a very odd kind of industrial waste.

The New York Times

Like much of his work, it contains the best and the worst of his prose in jarring juxtaposition.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Mockingjay - Part 1 is full of very jarring juxtapositions.

Independent

The director Matthew Warchus relishes visual contrasts and jarring juxtapositions.

Independent

After that introduction, there are three more minutes of jarring juxtapositions.

The New York Times - Arts

Yet such jarring juxtapositions add to the opera's ominous allure.

The New Yorker

HAMBURG, the maritime and media center of Germany, is a city of jarring juxtapositions.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "jarring juxtaposition" to describe situations where the contrast is not only strong but also creates a sense of unease or disorientation.

Common error

Avoid using "jarring juxtaposition" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your language with synonyms like "striking contrast" or "discordant pairing" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "jarring juxtaposition" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a situation where two elements are placed together in a way that is strikingly incongruous, creating a sense of unease or discord. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "jarring juxtaposition" effectively conveys a sense of unease arising from a stark contrast. Ludwig AI validates its correct and frequent usage, especially in news and media contexts, to highlight unexpected or disturbing combinations. While grammatically sound, varying your language with alternatives like "striking contrast" or "discordant pairing" can enhance your writing. Remember to reserve "jarring juxtaposition" for instances where the contrast is not merely strong, but also creates a notable sense of discomfort or disorientation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

striking contrast

Focuses on the degree of difference rather than the unsettling nature of the combination.

discordant pairing

Emphasizes the lack of harmony between the elements.

unsettling combination

Highlights the disturbing or uneasy feeling created by the combination.

unexpected clash

Focuses on the element of surprise and conflict.

incongruous mix

Emphasizes the lack of suitability of the combined elements.

odd coupling

Suggests an unusual or strange pairing.

conflicting elements

Highlights the presence of opposing forces or ideas.

paradoxical combination

Implies a self-contradictory or absurd pairing.

anomalous pairing

Focuses on the deviation from the norm or expectation.

surprising contrast

Emphasizes unexpected differences.

FAQs

What does "jarring juxtaposition" mean?

It describes a situation where two or more things are placed side by side in a way that is unexpected and creates a feeling of unease or dissonance due to their contrasting natures.

How can I use "jarring juxtaposition" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe visual, auditory, or conceptual contrasts. For instance, "The "striking contrast" between the modern skyscraper and the historic church created a "jarring juxtaposition"."

What are some synonyms for "jarring juxtaposition"?

Alternatives include "striking contrast", "discordant pairing", and "unsettling combination". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What is the difference between "jarring juxtaposition" and "contrast"?

"Contrast" simply refers to a noticeable difference. "Jarring juxtaposition" implies that the contrast is not only noticeable but also creates a sense of discomfort or disharmony.