CONTRAST Synonyms: 82 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

contrast 1 of 2

noun

ˈkän-ˌtrast

Definition of contrast

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

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

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, former Heat G League and summer standout Alondes Williams continues to push for something tangible in the NBA, at 27 accepting a Wizards Exhibit 10 camp invitation. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 15 Aug. 2026 The huge profit gains on Wall Street contrast with a real economy marked by meager job growth, wage growth trailing inflation for four straight months, and stagnant homebuilding. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 14 Aug. 2026

Verb

The dark purple ‘Wild Magic’ basil contrasts beautifully with ‘Crichton Honey’ dahlias, blue ageratum, and chartreuse ‘Caroline Medusa’ sweet potato vine. — Teresa Woodard, Midwest Living, 12 Aug. 2026 El-Sayed overcame funding disadvantage The stark contrasts in candidate funding led to differences in advertising strategies and appeals to different groups of voters. — Michael Traugott, The Conversation, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for contrast

Recent Examples of Synonyms for contrast

Noun

The two started off as enemies as Judy joined the Zootopia Police Department, but then put aside their differences to solve a mystery in the animal city.

— Jordan Moreau, Variety, 15 Aug. 2026
There is a difference in the cases of Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri, in that the former has been far more involved in some monumental moments.

— Kaya Kaynak, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of difference

Verb

This stark contrast in valuations and the differing perspectives between MLB and the Players Association are setting the stage for contentious negotiations, with a potential lockout looming.

— Maury Brown, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2026
Mother and daughter have differing recollections of that conversation some 14 years ago.

— Felice J. Freyer, STAT, 19 Aug. 2026

Definition of differ

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

Definition of distinctness

Noun

America is the ultimate answer to the pogrom, and to the emancipation Europe offered on the condition of relinquishing Jewish ethnic and cultural distinctiveness.

— Rory Lancman, New York Daily News, 5 Aug. 2026
In a portfolio of consumer brands, each brand's value lies substantially in its distinctiveness.

— Gustaf Lundberg Toresson, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

Definition of distinctiveness

Noun

The huge diversity in artistic opportunity is clearly visible in the finalists for 2026’s Ocean Photographer of the Year award.

— Lianne Kolirin, CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2026
In the fall of 2025, the ranking and review site released its 2026 list of the Best Schools in America, evaluating schools based on academics, diversity, teachers and college preparation.

— Angela Rodriguez, Sacbee.com, 13 Aug. 2026

Definition of diversity

Browse Nearby Words

contrary to

contrast

contrasted

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Contrast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrast. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

Copy Citation

Synonyms of contrast

noun

verb

Synonym Chooser

Example Sentences

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

More from Merriam-Webster on contrast

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

divulge

Popular in Grammar & Usage

A Who’s Who Regarding ‘Who’s’ and ‘Whose’

How to Pronounce the Trickiest Menu Items

'A' or 'an'? What about before 'h'? An Indefinite Article Guide

Do you 'say your piece' or 'say your peace'?

Why is '-ed' sometimes pronounced at the end of a word?

Popular in Wordplay

Words from the 'Odyssey'

The Longest Long Words List

Even More Words That Sound Like Insults But Aren't

12 Lovely and Unusual Words for the Natural World

Why do we 'bury the lede?'

Popular

A Who’s Who Regarding ‘Who’s’ and ‘Whose’

Words from the 'Odyssey'

The Longest Long Words List

Games & Quizzes