strong contrast

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "strong contrast" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant difference between two or more elements, ideas, or situations. Example: "There is a strong contrast between the vibrant colors of the painting and the dullness of the surrounding environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The colors are bright, with strong contrast.

The New York Times - Arts

There will be a very strong contrast.

The New York Times

This is in strong contrast to direct MIR detection systems.

Nature

This, of course, is in strong contrast to Y.O.L.O.

The New York Times

The delicate bronze bands are in strong contrast to the building's heavy stone base.

The New York Times - Arts

I think what were seeing here in Philadelphia is a very strong contrast to that.

The Guardian

Ms. Buckholz's work, evoking the confusion and pathos of city life, made for a strong contrast.

The New York Times - Arts

In contrast, in the cerebral cortex, both simple (C) and complex (D) cells exhibited strong contrast adaptation.

Yale University

The strong contrast with pre-menopausal patients remained even when accounting that the menopausal and peri-menopausal women were older.

Cornell University

The technique creates a strong contrast between light and shade, creating an impression of low relief.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is in strong contrast to the practical and materialistic orientation of other northern Mexicans.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "strong contrast" to effectively highlight differences between distinct elements, ensuring the audience understands the significance of the comparison. For example, when comparing data sets, use "strong contrast" to emphasize key deviations.

Common error

Avoid using "strong contrast" when the difference is minor or self-evident. Opt for simpler language like "slight difference" or "small variation" to maintain clarity and avoid exaggerating the comparison.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "strong contrast" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "strong" modifies the noun "contrast". It is used to denote a significant and easily perceptible difference between two or more entities or concepts. Ludwig examples confirm this usage, highlighting its role in descriptive and comparative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "strong contrast" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to indicate a significant difference between two or more entities. As confirmed by Ludwig, its usage spans across diverse fields like news, science, and academia. To maximize its impact, avoid overuse in simple comparisons and consider alternatives like "stark contrast" or "marked difference" for nuanced expression. Knowing the purpose and register of this expression are vital for successful usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stark contrast

Emphasizes an extreme or harsh difference, heightening the sense of opposition.

marked difference

Highlights a noticeable and significant dissimilarity between two things.

sharp distinction

Focuses on the clarity and precision of the difference.

clear divergence

Indicates a distinct departure or deviation from a norm or expectation.

pronounced disparity

Stresses the inequality or imbalance between two things.

evident opposition

Underscores a clear and visible disagreement or antithesis.

distinct variation

Emphasizes the unique and easily perceivable difference.

noticeable dissimilarity

Highlights the quality of being unlike or different in a way that is easy to observe.

major discrepancy

Draws attention to a substantial lack of agreement or consistency.

radical departure

Suggests a fundamental and significant change from a previous state or position.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "strong contrast"?

You can use alternatives like "stark contrast", "marked difference", or "sharp distinction" depending on the context.

How do I use "strong contrast" in a sentence?

Use "strong contrast" to highlight significant differences between two or more things. For example: "There is a "strong contrast" between the old and new buildings".

Is "strong contrast" formal or informal?

"Strong contrast" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, but it is often found in more analytical or descriptive contexts like academic papers or news articles.

What's the difference between "strong contrast" and "slight contrast"?

"Strong contrast" indicates a significant and easily noticeable difference, while "slight contrast" suggests a minor or subtle difference.