outlines against

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outlines against" is not commonly used in written English and may not convey a clear meaning.
It could potentially be used in contexts where something is being contrasted or compared, but it is not a standard expression. Example: "The report outlines against the previous findings, highlighting the discrepancies in data."

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Therefore, data elements in text-based outlines against required and other data elements defined in CAP checklists needs to be converted to synoptic worksheets in CoPathPlus.

BMC Cancer

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Outlined against the afternoon sky, they seemed like tombstones.

The New York Times

The first image looked promising: a white rose outlined against a royal blue background.

The New York Times - Arts

The chief's feathered headdress outlined against a large tree-trunk.

The New York Times

A single file of women in orange is outlined against a dark blue backdrop dramatically lighted by C. T. Oakes.

The New York Times - Arts

She appears to be leading a row of soldiers, outlined against a glowing red sky, into battle.

The New York Times

PARIS — The rabbit sits firm in front of a leafy wall, ears outlined against a vista of a distant chateau.

The New York Times

The Virgin Money moved out of the marina and into the deep purple night, darkly outlined against the lights in Jersey City across the Hudson River.

The New York Times - Sports

I suspect a buzzard must have seen the appetising blue bird outlined against the snow and nose-dived for its dinner.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Bowery Auctions stood outlined against the sky like the hull of amammoth upturned ship, four red-brick storeys swelling into the curved flank of tiled roof.

The Guardian - Books

A 1927 painting of a monumental tree jaggedly outlined against a bright blue sky suggests that the reputation of the once highly regarded Braught (1898-1983) might deserve revival.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "outlines against", ensure the context clearly establishes a visual contrast between the subject and its background. This phrasing is most effective when describing distinct shapes or forms.

Common error

Avoid using "outlines against" when the relationship between the subject and background is not visual or lacks a clear contrast. Opt for alternatives like "contrasts with" or "differs from" for abstract comparisons.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outlines against" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase used to describe a visual relationship where an object or shape is distinguished by its contrast with the background. This is supported by Ludwig's examples, where it often describes visual scenes.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "outlines against" is a prepositional phrase primarily used to describe a visual scene where an object or shape is made distinct by contrasting with its background. While grammatically acceptable, it's not frequently used, making it a rarer choice in general writing. Ludwig identifies its typical usage in news and science contexts. Consider alternatives such as "contrasts with" or "is set against" to convey similar meanings, especially in abstract contexts where visual distinction is not the primary focus. Keep in mind that the phrase is best suited for descriptive writing that aims to create a clear visual image.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contrasts with

Replaces the visual metaphor of an outline with a more direct comparison of differences.

is set against

Emphasizes the juxtaposition of two elements, highlighting their relationship.

stands in opposition to

Focuses on the contrasting or conflicting nature of the items being compared.

is juxtaposed with

Highlights the placement of elements side-by-side to emphasize their differences.

is defined in contrast to

Highlights how one thing is understood by seeing how it differs from another.

is distinguished from

Emphasizes the unique characteristics that set something apart from another.

is demarcated from

Focuses on setting clear boundaries or limits to differentiate between items.

is silhouetted against

Maintains a visual emphasis, focusing on the dark shape of something seen against a lighter background.

competing with

Highlights rivalry or opposition in a given environment.

compared to

Provides a general comparison rather than specific differentiation.

FAQs

How can I use "outlines against" in a sentence?

Use "outlines against" when describing a visual scene where an object's shape or form is clearly visible due to contrast with its background. For example, "The mountains were beautifully "silhouetted against" the sunset sky".

What's a good alternative to "outlines against"?

Depending on the intended meaning, alternatives include "contrasts with", "is set against", or "is juxtaposed with". The best choice depends on whether you want to emphasize visual contrast or a more general comparison.

Is "outlines against" formal or informal language?

"Outlines against" leans toward neutral to slightly formal, suitable for descriptive writing in news, literature, or scientific contexts. Avoid using in highly informal conversation.

How does "outlines against" differ from "contrasts with"?

"Outlines against" specifically implies a visual distinction where the shape of something is apparent due to background contrast. "Contrasts with" is broader, covering any kind of difference, visual or conceptual.