Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Comparison Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

⚖️
Add to dictionary

comparison

[kəmˈpærɪsn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in decision making

The act or instance of comparing; the state of being compared.

Synonyms

contrast, likeness, similarity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
comparison

The act of evaluating two or more things to highlight their differences or similarities.

  • In her essay, she made a comparison between the economic systems of the two countries to show their strengths and weaknesses
contrast

The process or result of highlighting the differences between two or more things.

  • The bright yellow walls provided a stark contrast to the dark wooden furniture
similarity

A point or degree of resemblance between two or more things.

  • Despite their differences, there are several striking similarities in their approaches to solving the problem
likeness

The state of being similar; usually used to indicate resemblance in appearance, form, or nature.

  • There is a striking likeness between the two brothers, especially in their facial expressions

Examples of usage

  • The comparison of the two products showed clear differences.
  • She made a detailed comparison of the various options available.
Context #2 | Noun

mathematics

The estimation of the magnitude of one quantity in relation to another.

Synonyms

assessment, evaluation, measurement.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
comparison

Used when analyzing the similarities and differences between two or more items. Often used in everyday conversations and academic contexts.

  • The comparison between the two products revealed significant differences in quality.
  • In her essay, she drew a comparison between modern and traditional teaching methods.
evaluation

Used when determining the value or effectiveness of something through careful analysis and study. Often used in formal and professional contexts.

  • The evaluation of the new software showed that it improved productivity by 30%.
  • Performance evaluation is an essential process in our company to ensure continuous improvement.
assessment

Used when determining or judging the value, quality, or ability of something or someone. Commonly used in educational, professional, and medical settings.

  • The teacher’s assessment of the students' projects took into account creativity and accuracy.
  • A thorough risk assessment is required before we can proceed with the project.
measurement

Used when quantifying the dimensions, amount, or capacity of something. Commonly used in scientific, mathematical, and technical contexts.

  • Accurate measurement of ingredients is crucial in baking.
  • The scientist recorded the measurement of the temperature at regular intervals.

Examples of usage

  • He used a ruler for the comparison of the lengths of the two lines.
  • The comparison of the fractions required converting them to a common denominator.
Context #3 | Noun

language

The use of comparison to convey meaning or emphasis.

Synonyms

analogy, metaphor, parallel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
comparison

Use when directly evaluating similarities and differences between two or more items, people, or situations.

  • The comparison between the two candidates showed a clear difference in their policies.
  • She made a comparison of the two products to determine which was better.
analogy

Best for explaining an idea or concept by showing its similarities to something more familiar or simpler.

  • The teacher used an analogy to help students understand the complex topic.
  • The company's growth was explained through an analogy with a growing tree.
metaphor

Used in literature and everyday language to describe something by calling it something else, highlighting symbolic meaning and vivid imagery.

  • Time is a thief that steals our moments of joy.
  • In the metaphor of the 'melting pot,' different cultures are blended together.
parallel

Employed to highlight similar patterns, events, or situations that occur simultaneously or under similar conditions.

  • The parallel between environmental destruction and economic instability is clear.
  • The story draws a parallel between the protagonist's journey and historical events.

Examples of usage

  • The poet used simile as a form of comparison in the poem.
  • The comparison of the two languages revealed interesting differences in structure.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'comparison'

The word 'comparison' originated from the Latin word 'comparare', which means 'to liken, compare'. The concept of comparison has been essential in human decision-making processes, mathematics, and language for centuries. From comparing products to evaluating quantities, comparison plays a vital role in various aspects of life and communication.

See also: comparable, comparably, comparative, comparatively, comparator, compare, comparer, comparisons, incomparable.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,407, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.