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
Chancellor Samuels and Mayor Zohran Mamdani, by contrast, seem to seek a return to the Bill de Blasio years. Ray Domanico, Washington Post, 9 Jan. 2026 By contrast, 57% of the respondents said China has been gaining influence. Nick Spicer, NPR, 9 Jan. 2026
Verb
Choose a tray that complements or contrasts the items, depending on your taste. Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Jan. 2026 The narrative contrasts Luis’s desire to restore his family unit with the ravers’ desire for radical personal freedom and escape. Robert Lang, Deadline, 7 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for contrast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contrast
Noun
  • Wrought Studio Lawandra Modern Upholstered Swivel Storage Chair To the naked eye, this may seem like a typical upholstered chair, but there’s one sneaky detail that makes a world of difference.
    Ali Faccenda, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
  • That’s for the college game, where the head coach is the star and the difference between the haves and have-nots is massive.
    Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 12 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The former head of Homeland Security Investigations for San Antonio, Jerry Robinette, said the effect on an agent would differ from person to person.
    Mark Morales, CNN Money, 10 Jan. 2026
  • Individual experiences often differ from the story told by industry benchmarks.
    Jonathan Lansner, Oc Register, 9 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
  • In another example of the cultural diversity found in his work, his Revolutionary War paintings make a point of including Black regiments when applicable.
    Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Here’s my short list of the best diversity stories of the past year published in The Star.
    Mara Williams, Kansas City Star, 7 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Still, Self noted there’s a distinction between practice and actual games in how Peterson feels.
    Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 13 Jan. 2026
  • The distinction of a judicial warrant is key because ICE agents could instead have an administrative warrant.
    Jeff Wagner, CBS News, 13 Jan. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Contrast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrast. Accessed 15 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on contrast

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