Meaning & use

contrast

verb·Academic

To examine or describe differences between things.

See it in a sentence

Contrast the two endings and explain how each changes the story.

The report contrasts weekday travel with weekend travel.

A note on using this word

Contrast A with B is a common pattern. Compare can cover both similarities and differences.

Words with a similar meaning

differentiate

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. noun

A noticeable difference between things.

The bright curtains create a contrast with the dark walls.

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “contrast”, then compare your use with the examples above.

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