Another Word for Contrast: 16 Synonyms with Examples
To contrast is to show how two things are different, or to be noticeably different. As a noun it means a clear difference. Alternatives vary in strength.
As a verb: show the differences
- compare
- differentiate
- distinguish
- set against
- juxtapose
As a verb: be different
- differ
- clash
- conflict
- diverge
- stand out
As a noun: a clear difference
- difference
- distinction
- disparity
- divergence
- gap
- opposition
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How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- compare
- Looks at both likeness and difference.
- distinguish
- Recognises or shows the difference between things.
- differ
- Is unlike, without stressing how strongly.
- clash
- Differs in a way that looks or feels wrong together.
- disparity
- A large, often unfair difference, such as in pay.
- distinction
- A difference that is noticed or made on purpose.
Example sentences
- compare: Compare the two graphs and describe the main trend.
- distinguish: Young children often can't distinguish fact from fantasy.
- differ: The two accounts differ on what time the car arrived.
- clash: The orange curtains clash with the red sofa.
- disparity: There is a wide disparity in pay between the regions.
- distinction: The law makes a distinction between lending and selling.
Opposite of contrast
- similarity
- likeness
- resemble
- match
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “contrast”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: counterpoint
noun: line, demarcation
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “contrast”?
The most useful alternatives are “compare”, “differentiate”, “distinguish”, “set against”, “juxtapose”. For the main sense (show the differences), “compare” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “compare” and “distinguish”?
compare: Looks at both likeness and difference. distinguish: Recognises or shows the difference between things.
What is the opposite of “contrast”?
Common antonyms are “similarity”, “likeness”, “resemble”, “match”.