contrast 1 of 2

Definition of contrastnext

contrast

2 of 2

verb

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

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of contrast
Noun
By contrast, the S&P 500 has gained about 15% in that timeframe. Morgan Chittum, CNBC, 30 Jan. 2026 Generic Large Nylon Tote Bag The first bag on this list is nearly indistinguishable from the iconic Le Pliage, from the gold hardware, to the canvas fabric, down to the contrast stitching on the handles. Amelia McBride, Travel + Leisure, 30 Jan. 2026
Verb
The spa The resort’s spa embraces water to create an oasis-like environment that contrasts with the arid environment outside. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Jan. 2026 Style your front door color with contrasting hardware for a bold look. Kristin Hohenadel, The Spruce, 28 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for contrast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contrast
Noun
  • The buildup has robbed the Pentagon of the element of surprise, but that may not make a huge difference.
    Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 31 Jan. 2026
  • The meeting produced some optimism that a deal was within reach, but differences remain about who should give up more water if drought persists.
    Brandon Loomis, AZCentral.com, 31 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • This time hosted against the dramatic architecture of Verona’s Roman Arena, this ceremony will celebrate the achievements of athletes from around the world, setting an unusual precedent of differing from the location of the opening ceremony.
    Sam Leveridge, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026
  • These individual mats differ from the main mahjong mat and are purely meant to make gameplay easier—providing a smooth, flat surface that helps reduce noise and protect the tiles and the table underneath.
    Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • How can the sense of an absolute union of all matter be reconciled with the endless multiplicity and distinctness of it?
    Christian Wiman, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025
  • However, a few hours with Air Riders reveals the nuance and depth of its gameplay, the distinctness of this flavor of racing game and its sensory, chaotic, and strategic appeal.
    Ryan Gaur, Rolling Stone, 19 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • As to the non-final action, one problem for the A’s is that the marks fail to show enough distinctiveness.
    Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Judean culture had been transformed by Greek influence for centuries, but Antiochus attempted to quash Judean religious distinctiveness altogether.
    Joshua Shanes, The Conversation, 11 Dec. 2025
Noun
  • The state's constitution was revised in 2022, when Democratic lawmakers voted to adopt the Equal Rights Amendment, which added gender identity to its list of diversity classifications that are protected under state law.
    Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 4 Feb. 2026
  • Coming off the most fruitless hiring cycle in terms of diversity the league has experienced in years, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell offered few solutions when asked about the matter at his annual state of the league Super Bowl news conference on Monday.
    Mike Jones, New York Times, 3 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The distinction is semantic, not economic.
    James Broughel, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Yeah, so the law has this long-standing distinction between what the lawyers would call prospective relief and retrospective relief.
    Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 26 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Contrast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrast. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026.

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