CONTRAST Synonyms: 82 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'contrast' distinct from other similar verbs?

The words collate and compare are common synonyms of contrast . While all three words mean "to set side by side in order to show differences and likenesses," contrast implies an emphasis on differences. // contrasted the computerized system with the old filing cards

Q: When is it sensible to use 'collate' instead of 'contrast'?

While the synonyms collate and contrast are close in meaning, collate implies minute and critical inspection in order to note points of agreement or divergence. // data from districts around the country will be collated

Q: When can 'compare' be used instead of 'contrast'?

The words compare and contrast are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, compare implies an aim of showing relative values or excellences by bringing out characteristic qualities whether similar or divergent. // compared the convention facilities of the two cities

contrast 1 of 2

noun

ˈkän-ˌtrast

Definition of contrast next

as in difference

the quality or state of being different the contrast between the two approaches to the problem of overeating could not be greater

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

contrast

2 of 2

verb

kən-ˈtrast

as in to differ

to be unlike; to not be the same her depressed mood today contrasts sharply with her good spirits yesterday

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word contrast distinct from other similar verbs?

The words collate and compare are common synonyms of contrast. While all three words mean "to set side by side in order to show differences and likenesses," contrast implies an emphasis on differences.

contrasted the computerized system with the old filing cards

When is it sensible to use collate instead of contrast?

While the synonyms collate and contrast are close in meaning, collate implies minute and critical inspection in order to note points of agreement or divergence.

data from districts around the country will be collated

When can compare be used instead of contrast?

The words compare and contrast are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, compare implies an aim of showing relative values or excellences by bringing out characteristic qualities whether similar or divergent.

compared the convention facilities of the two cities

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of contrast

Noun

By contrast, the eastern and southern parts of Ukraine have a large Russian-speaking population. —

Anton Grushetskyi, Foreign Affairs, 30 Dec. 2024 His victory was greeted as a new era of good government in Washington — the Carter smile a contrast to the scowl of Nixon. —

Ted Johnson, Deadline, 29 Dec. 2024

Verb

Husk is a composite of the many law enforcement officials who took part in the investigation, a fictional character with whom the filmmakers could paint a portrait that would dramatically contrast with the real-life Mathews. —

Jordan Riefe, Los Angeles Times, 7 Jan. 2025 Trump’s stance directly contrasts with the preference of many Republicans up on Capitol Hill, including Thune, who laid out a plan last month that includes two reconciliation packages. —

Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 6 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for contrast

Recent Examples of Synonyms for contrast

Noun

Here, then, are most*** of the 2024 House races sorted by the difference between their margins and the presidential margins in their districts.

Nathaniel Rakich, ABC News, 10 Jan. 2025
And that, as Kane correctly pointed out, is the biggest difference between Kane’s first two years and Bedard’s.

Mark Lazerus, The Athletic, 10 Jan. 2025