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

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

In stark contrast to Hungary’s economic decay, Orbán’s family and friends have become spectacularly wealthy through gifted government contracts and other grift. —Elizabeth Shackelford, Chicago Tribune, 17 Apr. 2026

In contrast, a green placard means a restaurant passed inspection. —Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 17 Apr. 2026

Verb

That stance contrasts strongly with that of Germany’s national government, which has been a strong supporter of Ukraine in the war with Russia. —Sebastian Shukla, CNN Money, 15 Apr. 2026

Bayern’s excellence contrasts sharply with Madrid’s troubles. —ABC News, 15 Apr. 2026