Compare vs Contrast
What’s the difference between them?
Compare
Meaning:
To examine or look at (two or more objects, ideas, people, etc.) in order to note similarities and differences.
Examples:
1. I compared the prices of similar products to get the best deal.
2. She compared her grade to her friend's and was relieved to find that hers was higher.
3. We compared notes after the meeting to make sure everyone was on the same page.
Contrast
Meaning:
The clear difference in form, color, or value of two or more elements placed side by side.
Examples:
1. The contrast between the two cities was quite striking.
2. The bright colors of the room provided a stark contrast to the muted tones outside.
3. His performance was a stark contrast to his colleague's lackluster effort.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Compare
1. Match
2. Correlate
3. Paralleling
4. Weigh up
1. Contrast
2. Disagree
3. Diverge
4. Inverse
5. Reverse
Contrast
1. Compare
2. Differ
3. Diverge
4. Oppose
5. Stand in stark contrast
1. Agreement
2. Compliance
3. Union
4. Harmony
5. Alignment
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Compare", "Contrast".
1. To compare means to identify similarities between two or more objects or ideas.
2. Contrast means to identify dissimilarities between the same objects or ideas.
3. Think of the phrase 'on the contrary' - this phrase can help you remember that when you contrast, you are looking for differences between two objects.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When should 'compare' be used?
Compare should be used when you want to examine the similarities and differences between two or more items, ideas, or concepts. It is important to consider both the similarities and differences to have a better understanding of the comparison being made.
When is the appropriate context for using 'contrast'?
Contrast should be used when you want to focus specifically on the differences between two or more items, ideas, or concepts. It is important to highlight the differences to come to a clear understanding of the comparison being made.
Do 'compare' and 'contrast' share the same pronunciation?
No, compare and contrast do not share the same pronunciation. Compare is pronounced /kəmˈper/ and contrast is pronounced /ˈkänˌtrast/.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
A common mistake people make when using compare and contrast is not considering both the similarities and differences between two items. It is important to note the similarities and differences when making a comparison, otherwise it can lead to a misunderstanding or misinterpretation of the comparison.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. Students must _______ the two poems in order to identify similarities and differences.
2. We will _______ the different methods of data collection in this experiment.
3. The analyst was asked to _______ the pros and cons of the new policy.
4. She was unable to _______ between the two brands of paint.
5. My teacher asked us to _______ the two characters in the novel.
6. The researcher had to _______ the results of the two trials.
1. Compare
Explanation: The word compare indicates a comparison between two or more items, which is what the sentence requires. It is necessary to compare the two poems to identify the similarities and differences between them.
2. Contrast
Explanation: The word contrast indicates the comparison of opposite or different items, which is what the sentence requires. Comparing the different methods of data collection allows the researcher to identify what is opposite or different between them.
3. Compare
Explanation: The word compare indicates a comparison of two or more items, which is what the sentence requires. The analyst must compare the pros and cons of the new policy to determine its advantages and disadvantages.
4. Compare
Explanation: The word compare indicates the ability to identify the differences and similarities between two or more items, which is what the sentence requires. She must be able to compare the two brands of paint to determine what makes them different and similar.
5. Compare
Explanation: The word compare indicates a comparison of two or more items, which is what the sentence requires. Comparing the two characters helps the students to identify the similarities and differences between them.
6. Compare
Explanation: The word compare indicates a comparison of two or more items, which is what the sentence requires. Comparing the results of the two trials allows the researcher to determine any similarities or differences between them.
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List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.