marked contrast

USAGE SUMMARY

"marked contrast" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a significant or noticeable difference or comparison between two things. Example: "There was a marked contrast between the two candidates' positions on immigration." This sentence means that there was a noticeable difference in the way the two candidates viewed and spoke about immigration policies.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In marked contrast the Newcastle team have apparently achieved little.

The Guardian - Opinion

This was all in marked contrast to the group's impeccable British shows of three years ago.

The Guardian - Music

Car ownership too has been falling, in marked contrast with the rest of England and Wales.

The Guardian

Type I Modic changes showed a marked contrast enhancement.

European Radiology Experimental

However, the staining pattern showed marked contrast under the fluorescein microscope.

Duke University

The towns looked mostly peaceful, in marked contrast with the capital.

Los Angeles Times

Fibrovascular septa tend to show marked contrast enhancement.

Cancer Imaging

Marked contrast enhancement is the rule [47].

Insights into Imaging

Sweden provided a marked contrast.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Millwall were in marked contrast.

The Guardian - Sport

In marked contrast, both i.c.v.

European Journal of Pharmacology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "marked contrast", ensure the items being compared are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify exactly what aspects of the two subjects differ.

Common error

Avoid using "marked contrast" with adjectives that already imply a strong difference. For instance, "stark marked contrast" is redundant because "stark" already conveys a significant difference.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "marked contrast" functions as a noun phrase where "marked" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "contrast". As evidenced by Ludwig AI, it describes a noticeable or significant difference between two or more entities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "marked contrast" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to highlight a significant difference between two or more entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears most frequently in news and media, but is also present in scientific and encyclopedic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in what is being compared and avoid redundancy with strong adjectives. Consider alternatives like "striking difference" or "significant disparity" to add nuance to your writing. By understanding its proper usage and potential pitfalls, you can effectively communicate differences with precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

striking difference

Emphasizes the visual or immediately apparent nature of the difference.

significant disparity

Highlights an imbalance or inequality between the compared items.

noticeable distinction

Focuses on the clear and easily observed separation between two things.

pronounced divergence

Implies a gradual separation that has become quite evident.

clear differentiation

Stresses the act of distinguishing or setting apart.

sharp dissimilarity

Indicates an acute lack of resemblance or similarity.

obvious contrast

Emphasizes that the contrast is easily perceived and undeniable.

evident difference

Suggests the difference is readily apparent and requires no deep analysis.

distinct variation

Highlights a specific form or instance of difference.

palpable distinction

Implies the difference is so strong it can almost be felt or sensed.

FAQs

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

You can use "marked contrast" to highlight significant differences between two subjects. For example: "There was a "marked contrast" between his early work and his later masterpieces."

What are some alternatives to using "marked contrast"?

Alternatives include "striking difference", "significant disparity", or "noticeable distinction", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to use "marked contrast" or "stark contrast"?

"Marked contrast" is generally suitable, while "stark contrast" emphasizes a more severe or obvious difference. The best choice depends on the degree of difference you want to express.

What's the difference between "marked contrast" and "obvious contrast"?

"Marked contrast" indicates a notable difference, whereas "obvious contrast" suggests the difference is easily seen or understood without needing deep analysis.