stand in stark contrast

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'stand in stark contrast' is correct and can be used in written English.
It refers to two things that are very different from each other in contrast to each other. For example, "The beauty of nature stands in stark contrast to the ugliness of war."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Trump's campaign promises stand "in stark contrast to the corporate, billionaire-driven agenda" now emerging, he said.

Huffington Post

The numbers stand in stark contrast to those of the suburban market.

The New York Times

Such numbers stand in stark contrast to the recent pessimism of the Office for Budget Responsibility.

The Guardian

Such plans stand in stark contrast to the federal government's strategy today.

The Economist

Their courage and selflessness stand in stark contrast to the empty callousness of their murderers.

Independent

Thomas Wilmer Dewing's dreamlike settings stand in stark contrast to the newly industrialized, gritty environment of late nineteenth-century America.

Yale University

In fact, aspects of the forum stand in stark contrast with the many ways China remains closed and intransigent.

The New York Times

These companies, of course, stand in stark contrast to those that are focused solely on creating value for their shareholders.

Harvard Business Review

The White House's sudden notes of conciliation stand in stark contrast to Trump's own comments since his election.

The Washington Post

They also stand in stark contrast to the actions of a fabled corporate chief executive officer three decades ago.

The New York Times

China's firm commitment and leadership role stand in stark contrast to the U.S. waffling on the Paris Agreement.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stand in stark contrast" to highlight significant differences between two distinct entities or ideas. This phrase is particularly effective when you want to emphasize the magnitude of the contrast.

Common error

Avoid using "stand in stark contrast" for minor differences. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the contrast is truly significant and noteworthy, not for subtle variations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stand in stark contrast" functions as a comparative expression, highlighting a significant and obvious difference between two subjects. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and its frequent use in emphasizing opposing qualities or characteristics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

23%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stand in stark contrast" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to emphasize substantial differences between two subjects. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for formal writing, particularly in contexts like news reporting, academic discourse, and scientific analysis. The phrase aims to highlight significant divergences and is more impactful than simply stating that two things "differ". While versatile, reserve its use for truly noteworthy contrasts to avoid diluting its effectiveness. Consider alternatives like "contrast sharply with" or "differ markedly from" to tailor the specific nuance of your writing. Overall, "stand in stark contrast" is a valuable tool for clearly conveying significant distinctions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contrast sharply with

Emphasizes the act of differing significantly from something else.

differ markedly from

Highlights a clear and noticeable dissimilarity.

be at odds with

Implies a conflict or incompatibility between two things.

form a striking contrast to

Focuses on the creation of a noticeable and memorable difference.

be a world apart from

Suggests a very large difference, almost like belonging to different realms.

be poles apart from

Indicates that two things are as different as possible.

present a dichotomy with

Highlights a division into two sharply opposed things.

be diametrically opposed to

Emphasizes being completely opposite to something else.

sharply deviate from

Indicates a clear departure from a standard or expected path.

represent a divergence from

Focuses on the act of moving in a different direction.

FAQs

How can I use "stand in stark contrast" in a sentence?

This phrase is typically used to emphasize a significant difference between two subjects. For example, "The candidate's promises "stand in stark contrast" to their past actions".

What are some alternatives to "stand in stark contrast"?

Alternatives include "contrast sharply with", "differ markedly from", or "be at odds with". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "stand in stark contrast" in formal writing?

Yes, "stand in stark contrast" is appropriate for formal writing. Ludwig shows that is commonly used in news media, academic, and scientific contexts.

What's the difference between "stand in stark contrast" and "differ significantly"?

"Differ significantly" indicates a notable difference, while "stand in stark contrast" implies a more extreme and striking opposition. The latter is used for more pronounced disparities.