Juxtaposition: meaning, definitions and examples
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juxtaposition
[ ˌdʒʌkstəpəˈzɪʃən ]
literary technique
Juxtaposition is the act of placing two or more ideas, themes, characters, or elements side by side for the purpose of comparison or contrast. This technique is often used in literature and art to highlight differences and create an effect that adds depth to the narrative or visual representation.
Synonyms
comparison, contrast, proximity
Examples of usage
- The juxtaposition of light and dark adds intensity to the painting.
- In her novel, the juxtaposition of the protagonist's innocence with the harsh realities of life stands out.
- The filmmaker used juxtaposition to enhance the emotional impact of the scenes.
Translations
Translations of the word "juxtaposition" in other languages:
🇵🇹 juxtaposição
🇮🇳 जुड़ाव
🇩🇪 Juxtaposition
🇮🇩 juxtaposition
🇺🇦 юxtapozіція
🇵🇱 juxtapozycja
🇯🇵 対置 (たいち)
🇫🇷 juxtaposition
🇪🇸 yuxtaposition
🇹🇷 yan yana koyma
🇰🇷 병렬 (byeongnyeol)
🇸🇦 التجاور
🇨🇿 juxtapozice
🇸🇰 juxtapozícia
🇨🇳 并列 (bìngliè)
🇸🇮 juxtapozicija
🇮🇸 samansetning
🇰🇿 жақын орналасу
🇬🇪 ჯუქსტაპოზიცია
🇦🇿 juxtapozisiya
🇲🇽 yuxtaposición
Etymology
The word 'juxtaposition' originated in the late 19th century, derived from the Latin 'juxta', meaning 'next' or 'beside', and the French word 'position', which means 'position' or 'placing'. The compound nature of the term reflects its literal meaning: the act of placing things side by side. Initially employed in art and literature, it gained popularity as a rhetorical and analytical device. Over the years, juxtaposition has become a fundamental concept across various disciplines, including philosophy, sociology, and visual arts, where it serves as a means to explore and emphasize contrasts and relationships between disparate elements. As an analytical tool, juxtaposition helps to unveil deeper meanings and insights, enhancing both understanding and appreciation of artistic expression.