Synonyms of contrast

contrast 1 of 2

noun

ˈkän-ˌtrast 

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

• difference
• distinctness
• distinctiveness
• diversity
• distinction
• disparity
• dissimilarity
• distance
• disagreement
• discrepancy
• diverseness
• divergence
• unlikeness
• dissimilitude
• variation
• disparateness
• otherness
• variability
• change
• modification
• dichotomy
• deviance
• variance
• imbalance
• friction
• incongruity
• distinguishability
• differentiability
• conflict
• discord
• discordance
• dissent
• disproportion
• incongruence
• inequality
• strife
• disunity
• discriminability
• dissension
• incompatibility
• incongruousness
• dissidence
• nonconformity
• anomalousness
• nonequivalence

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• similarity
• analogy
• resemblance
• community
• likeness
• sameness
• identity
• accordance
• agreement
• correspondence
• conformity
• parallelism
• alikeness
• analogousness
• congruity
• similitude
• equality
• equivalence
• uniformity
• identicalness
• equivalency
• homogeneity
• homogeneousness

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

• differ
• vary
• divide
• separate
• diverge
• deviate
• fluctuate

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• compare
• match
• agree
• correspond
• conform
• accord

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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of contrast

Noun

Strong democracies, by contrast, rely on impersonal institutions that protect state promises from day-to-day political interference and on budgets large enough for these institutions to carry them out. — Matias Spektor, Foreign Affairs, 2 Oct. 2026

YouTube’s strategy is distinct from Netflix’s — an interesting contrast between the two largest streaming services in the world by users. — Alex Sherman, CNBC, 2 Oct. 2026

Verb

Gems in contrasting shades are arranged into tiny blooms, giving classic floral nail art the full crystal candy treatment. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 24 Sep. 2026

At the main residence, a grand double-height foyer opens to the interiors, where bright white walls contrast with dark wood floors and balustrades. — Tori Latham, Robb Report, 23 Sep. 2026