Contrasting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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contrasting
[หkษntrรฆstษชล ]
Definitions
in comparing two things
Showing a striking difference between two things; contrasting colors, contrasting opinions, contrasting styles.
Synonyms
differing, distinct, opposite, varying.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contrasting |
Used to describe things that are strikingly different from each other, often in a way that is obvious and meant to be compared. Commonly used in visual or descriptive contexts.
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| differing |
Refers to a variation or lack of agreement between two or more things. This word is often used in discussions or comparisons of ideas, opinions, or conditions.
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| opposite |
Used when discussing things that are completely different or contrary to each other. Often refers to extreme differences or polar contrasts.
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| distinct |
Indicates something that is clearly separate and different in its own right. Typically used to emphasize individuality or uniqueness.
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| varying |
Highlights differences in degree, amount, or nature within a range of possibilities. Usually used to express a spectrum or variety.
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Examples of usage
- The contrasting views of the two politicians made it difficult for voters to decide.
- The contrasting flavors of sweet and salty created a unique taste experience.
- The contrasting personalities of the twins were evident from a young age.
in photography
Alter or enhance the difference in color, tone, or light in an image to make the subject stand out; to make the subject more prominent by contrasting it with the background.
Synonyms
accentuate, emphasize, highlight.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contrasting |
Use 'contrasting' when you want to talk about differences between two things, showing how they are opposite or very different.
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| highlight |
Use 'highlight' when you want to point out something important or attractive, often to ensure it gets noticed.
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| emphasize |
Use 'emphasize' to stress the importance of something or to make it stand out in a discussion or argument.
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| accentuate |
Use 'accentuate' when you want to bring attention to a particular feature, making it more noticeable or distinct. This term is often used in a positive sense.
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Examples of usage
- She contrasted the bright flowers against the dark foliage for a dramatic effect.
- The photographer used lighting to contrast the model's face against the shadowed background.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art and Design
- In visual arts, contrasting colors can draw attention and create dynamic compositions, like using red against green.
- Artists often use contrast in light and shadow to add depth, making their work more realistic and engaging.
- Contrasting textures in materials, like smooth glass next to rough wood, can enhance visual interest in design.
Psychology
- Our brains utilize contrast to understand our surroundings; for instance, bright objects stand out against dark backgrounds.
- The 'contrast effect' in psychology shows how our perception of something can change based on surrounding information or stimuli.
- People often use contrasts in communication to make points clearer, for example, by comparing success and failure.
Literature
- Writers use contrasting characters to highlight differences in personalities, such as a hero versus a villain.
- The theme of contrast often appears in literature as a way to explore complex ideas, like love versus hate or freedom versus confinement.
- Juxtaposing different settings or time periods in a narrative can create tension and enrich the story's meaning.
Nature
- In nature, contrasting colors, such as bright tropical birds in green forests, help some species attract mates or warn predators.
- Contrasting ecosystems, like deserts and rainforests, show biodiversity โ each has its unique life despite being so different.
- Seasonal changes create beautiful contrasts, such as the vibrant colors of autumn leaves against stark winter trees.
Origin of 'contrasting'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'contrast' comes from the Latin 'contrastare,' which means 'to stand against.'
- In the 16th century, 'contrasting' began to be used to describe differences in colors and ideas.
- The prefix 'con-' means 'together' while 'trastare' refers to 'standing,' emphasizing differences that stand out together.
The word 'contrasting' originates from the Latin word 'contrastare,' meaning 'to stand out against.' The concept of contrast has been used in various forms of art and design to create visual interest and highlight differences. In language, contrasting is often used to emphasize differences or create a vivid comparison.
See also: contrast, contraster, contrasts.