French word

contraste

Pronunciation

IPA/kɔ̃tʁast/

Meaning

  • masculine nouncontrast

Example

Ce tableau joue sur le contraste des couleurs.

This painting plays on the contrast between the colors.

Illustration for contraste (contrast)

More examples

Le contraste entre les deux photos est évident.

The contrast between the two photos is obvious.

Core concept

Two sharply different colors, forms, or ideas placed together so each stands out more clearly.

Common phrases

  • le contraste entre deux idées

    the contrast between two ideas

  • un contraste de couleurs vives

    a contrast of bright colors

  • un contraste marqué

    a marked contrast

Similar words

différence: A difference between two or more people, things, or ideas.
opposition: A conflict between opposing positions or opinions.
nuance: A subtle, very slight difference in shade, tone, or meaning.
écart: A gap between two numbers, levels, distances, or degrees.

Definition in French

Différence nette entre deux éléments, mise en évidence pour faire ressortir leurs caractéristiques opposées.

Word origin

French contraste came through Italian contrasto from Latin contra, meaning "against," and stare, meaning "stand."

Usage tips

  • Contraste is masculine, so the usual article is "le contraste" or "un contraste."

Opposites

Related words

  • contrastercontrastverb
  • contrastécontrastingadjective

Word lists with this word