Contrasts
/ˈkɒntrɑːsts/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo be strikingly different from something else, or to show a difference between two things.
/kənˈtrɑːsts/
To differ strikingly; to show a marked difference.
Her optimistic outlook contrasts with his pessimistic view.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're comparing two outfits – one is super bright, the other is dark. If they're next to each other, they *contrast*. It’s like, 'Whoa, they're totally different!'
👶 For kids: When things are very different from each other, like a black cat and a white dog, they contrast!
More Examples
The new evidence contrasts sharply with previous assumptions.
The chef contrasted the sweetness of the fruit with the tang of the vinegar.
How It's Used
"The bright colors contrast sharply with the muted background."
"The author uses contrasting scenes to highlight the protagonist's transformation."
A difference, particularly a striking difference, between two or more things or people.
/ˈkɒntrɑːsts/
The state of being strikingly different from something else, typically something in juxtaposition or close association.
The contrast between the two paintings was quite striking.
💡 Simply: Imagine two pictures: one is a sunny beach, the other a dark forest. The *contrast* is how different they are. It’s the 'Wow!' factor of differences.
👶 For kids: When things look or feel very different from each other, like day and night, that's a contrast!
More Examples
The article explored the social contrasts of the era.
The strong contrast between the two flavors was surprising.
How It's Used
"The photograph benefits from high contrast between light and shadow."
"The debate highlighted the sharp contrasts between the candidates' policies."
Idioms & expressions
in stark contrast to
Used to emphasize how different something is from something else.
"In stark contrast to the calm weather the day before, a storm hit on the day of the event."
contrast agent
A substance used to enhance the visibility of internal body structures in medical imaging.
"The doctor injected a contrast agent to better visualize the patient's organs."
From the French word "contraste", derived from the Italian "contrasto", ultimately from the Latin "contra" (against) + "stare" (to stand). Originally referred to opposing things or differences, the word evolved to describe visual or conceptual distinctions.
The word "contrast" has been used since the 16th century. Early uses focused on visual or conceptual differences, evolving to include a broader range of comparisons.
Memory tip
Think of two things being put on a stage, and the director saying, 'Now, contrast your performances!'