Contrasted

'kɒntrɑːstɪd

verbIntermediate📊CommonGeneral
1 meaning3 questions

Definitions

1

To compare or be compared to something else to show differences.

'kɒntrɑːstɪd

verbneutralIntermediate
General

To be strikingly different from something else, often in a way that makes the differences clearer.

The old house contrasted sharply with the modern skyscrapers surrounding it.

💡 Simply: Imagine you're showing off your new bright red jacket next to a plain black one. You're *contrasting* them to show how different they are. Contrasting is like pointing out how two things are different so people can notice.

👶 For kids: When things are different, like a big dog and a small cat, we can say they are contrasted.

More Examples

2

The analysis contrasted the two companies' strategies to highlight their strengths and weaknesses.

3

Her calm demeanor contrasted with his erratic behavior.

How It's Used

Art

"The artist contrasted light and dark colors to create a dramatic effect."

Literature

"The author contrasted the protagonist's optimism with the antagonist's cynicism."

General

"The report contrasted the economic growth of the two countries."

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

From the Latin 'contrāstāre,' meaning 'to stand against' or 'to compare.' It's formed from 'contra-' (against) and 'stāre' (to stand).

The word has been used since the 17th century, initially in the context of showing differences between things.

Memory tip

Think of two things that are very different. Contrasting them helps you see what makes each of them unique.

Word Origin

LanguageLatin
Original meaning

"to stand against, to compare"

contrasted sharplycontrasted significantlycontrasted withcontrasted the twocontrasted in appearance

Common misspellings

contrasteddcontrasteded

Usage

40%Spoken
60%Written