Compare vs. Contrast 

What is the difference between 'compare' and 'contrast'?

'Compare' and 'contrast' are both concerned with analyzing or examining the features of two items or entities. However, 'compare' involves examining similarities and differences between items, while 'contrast' specifically emphasizes the differences or divergent qualities. This lesson will clarify this difference.

Difference in Focus

'Compare' is concerned with identifying the similarities or differences between two or more things, concepts, or ideas. It involves examining the characteristics or qualities of each item and noting their similarities and differences in order to understand them better or make judgments about them. 'Contrast', however, focuses only on the differences or distinctions between two or more things, concepts, or ideas. It involves highlighting the dissimilarities or opposing aspects of two things to emphasize their uniqueness or divergent qualities. Here are some examples:

Example

The researchers compared the effectiveness of two different medications in treating the same condition.

She compared the nutritional values of various food products before making her dietary choices.

The essay contrasted the economic policies of two different political parties.

The documentary contrasted the lifestyles of people living in rural areas versus urban areas.

When 'contrast' is used, the focus is on differences rather than similarities.

The documentary compared the lifestyles of people living in rural areas versus urban areas.

The two verbs can be used interchangeably, but when 'compare' is used, both similarities and differences will be discussed.

Comments

(0)
Loading Recaptcha...
Share on :
Share on :
books
Learn English VocabularyStart learning categorized English vocabulary on Langeek.
Click to start

Recommended

Cook vs. Bake

bookmark
Both 'cook' and 'bake' are concerned with preparing food, but they are used in different contexts. Follow the lesson to find out more about them.

Welcome vs. Greet

bookmark
'Welcome' and 'greet' are both related to receiving someone but they are used in different contexts and with different degrees of friendliness.

Improve vs. Enhance

bookmark
Both verbs are concerned with making something better but they have some subtle differences in meaning and grammar. follow the lesson to find out more.

Drink vs. Sip

bookmark
Both verbs refer to the act of taking fluids and swallowing them, but they refer to different quantity and speed in the act. Follow the lesson to find out more.

Worry vs. Concern

bookmark
These verbs are synonyms but are used in different grammatical structures. This lesson will clarify their difference.

Affect vs. Influence vs. Impact

bookmark
These three verbs are related to causing a change in someone or something but they imply different degrees of change. Follow the lesson to find out more.
LanGeek
Download LanGeek app