A Contrast Synonym Guide — Definition, Antonyms, and Examples

Developing your vocabulary is a vital part of learning the English language. When writing a paper in English, repetitive words makes the writing dull. When written articulately with the proper usage of different terms, it catches the readers’ attention. Therefore, learning the synonyms and antonyms of different words and the appropriate usage is always recommended. Here’s a contrast synonym guide to help you learn the word along with other similar and opposite words.

The Definition of Contrast

The word ‘contrast,’ based on the English dictionary, can function both as a noun and a verb. It describes a juxtaposition of two things. It can also be used to compare or differentiate based on the context of its usage.

As a Verb:

• Your words are a contrast to your actions.
• The bright wall color highly contrasts the light decors in the room.
• The task is to compare and contrast the traits of the two characters.

As a Noun:

• The contrast of her white dress against the dark sky looked amazing.
• Carefully contrasting the two images showed slight differences.
• In contrast to the rest of her light features, her eyes were a dark brown color.

Contrast Synonym — Exploring Words With Similar Meanings

Difference

The word ‘difference‘ originates from the Latin differentia. The term refers to the act of pointing out dissimilarities between two subjects or objects. It can also mean a disagreement or dispute.

• They were able to clear up their differences.
• I couldn’t tell the difference between the identical twin sisters.

Variance

Variance originates from the Latin variantia, which means “difference.” The term refers to the measure of distance or difference between two things. It can also refer to inconsistency or discrepancy.

• There was some variance between her two tests.
• There is a slight variance in the quality of the clothes.

Disparity

‘Disparity” comes directly from the French term disparité. Disparity refers to a sizeable difference between something. It can also mean an unfair situation.

• The disparity in the two brothers’ income caused them to argue.
• Racial disparity is still a huge problem in many parts of the world.

Antithesis

‘Antithesis” comes from the Greek antitithenai, which means “set against.” In the literal sense, it refers to someone or something which is the complete opposite of another person or object.

• She was the antithesis of her father.
• Love is the antithesis of selfishness.

Distinction

‘Distinction’ comes from the Latin verb distinguere. It means a difference that sets something or someone apart from the rest. It also refers to the differentiation between people or objects.

• There were no particular distinctions between the two dresses.
• I couldn’t find a clear distinction between the two project proposals.

Contrast Antonyms — Exploring Words With Opposite Meanings

Similarity

‘Similar‘ comes from the French similaire. The term ‘similarity’ refers to a resemblance or likeness between two things. It also refers to the quality that makes one thing like another.

• The similarity between the two sisters was evident.
• There was no similarity between the two leading styles.

Homogeneity

‘Homogeneity’ or homogenous comes from the Greek words hom, which means “same,” and genos, which means “kind.” Homogeneity refers to the qualities of people or objects which make them similar.

• Homogeneity in DNA is what makes parents and their children similar.
• The army required all soldiers to have homogeneity in their appearance.

Match

‘Match’ comes from the Old English gemæcca, meaning “mate” or “companion.” The word ‘match’ refers to being equal in something. It can also be used as correspondence to something.

• He was no match for his opponent.
• I want the curtains to match the aesthetic of the entire room.

Resemblance

‘Resemblance’ refers to the state of looking like someone or something else. ‘Resemblance’ is the noun form of the verb ‘resemble.’ It originates from the French term sembler, meaning “to appear.” 

• There was a striking resemblance between the two brothers.
• You could tell they are all family members by the resemblance of their facial structures.

Harmony

‘Harmony’ originates from the Latin harmonia, which means “joining” or “concord.” The word ‘harmony’ refers to agreement or accord. It also means arranging musical notes in a manner pleasing to the ears.

• There was a lot of harmony in their relationship.
• The harmony they created together with their voices was utterly magical.

To Wrap Up

This contrast synonym guide was created in short to help you understand the meaning of ‘contrast’ along with its various similar and dissimilar words.

You can compare the words to choose the one that best fits a given situation. We also included plenty of examples, so you can take your time learning each word and use it to improve your writing skills. You can also look for more synonyms in the Thesaurus.