noun / verb
contrast
KAHN-trast/ˈkɑːntræst/
A perceptible difference between compared things.
The fresh yellow daisies contrast sharply with the wilted brown ones.
Etymology
The image is of things standing against one another. As an artistic term, contrast meant setting things in opposition to bring out their differences; the noun then named the striking difference itself.
In context
the lovely contrast between the crisp crunch of the um The Gua the rice crust and the liquid
More examples
- The quiet courtyard is a welcome contrast to the busy street.
- The report contrasts the two plans' costs and benefits.
- Increasing the contrast makes the photo's shadows look darker.
Forms
contrast · contrasts · contrasted · contrasting
Similar words
- difference
- Names any way things differ, without emphasizing a noticeable opposition.
- disparity
- Emphasizes an unequal gap, especially in amounts, conditions, or opportunities.