Contrast Meaning and Definition
Contrast
Pronunciation
/kənˈtrɑːst/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A noticeable difference in quality, quantity, or appearance between two or more things; a striking dissimilarity.
Examples
- The bright colors of the sunset provided a striking contrast to the dull gray sky.
- The contrast between the old and new buildings in the cityscape was striking.
Synonyms
- Discrepancy
- Difference
Antonyms
- Similarity
- Uniformity
Etymology
The word “contrast” comes from the Old French “contrast,” meaning “opposition” or “antithesis,” which is derived from the Latin “contrarius,” meaning “opposite.”
Usage Notes
Contrast is often used to describe the difference between two things in terms of their physical or sensory properties, such as color, shape, or size. It can also be used to describe the difference between two concepts or ideas, such as contrasting values or perspectives.
Cultural References
Contrast has been used in various cultural references, such as in art, literature, and music. For example, the artist Salvador Dali used contrast in his surrealist paintings to create striking and thought-provoking images.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- bright contrast – a sharp and striking difference
- clear contrast – a distinct and noticeable difference
Related Words or Phrases
- Similarity
- Difference
- Antithesis
Collocations
- visual contrast
- auditory contrast
- perceptible contrast
Frequency of Use
Contrast is a common word in everyday language and is frequently used in various contexts, such as art, literature, music, and everyday conversation.
Common Misspellings
- contrasted
- contrasting
- contractive