WordValejuxtaposition
placing contrasting things side by side for effect
placing contrasting elements side by side for effect
In more detail
1. (noun) the act of placing two things side by side, especially for the purpose of comparing them or showing a contrast
2. (noun) a situation in which two things are placed or considered together
Examples
- 1. The juxtaposition of the old building next to the modern skyscraper shows how the city has changed.
- 2. The movie uses juxtaposition of light and darkness to create a sense of fear.
How to use juxtaposition
Juxtaposition refers to the act or result of placing things side by side, typically to highlight contrast or create meaning through their relationship. It is more formal and literary than simple 'contrast' and emphasizes the deliberate or striking nature of the placement, often used in art, literature, and analytical contexts to show how unexpected proximity creates new insights.
Common phrases
- striking juxtaposition
- juxtaposition of opposites
- in juxtaposition with
- create a juxtaposition
- juxtaposition reveals
Synonyms
contrast · comparison · proximity · placement · arrangement
Opposites
separation · distance
Word family
juxtapose (verb) · juxtaposed (adjective) · juxtapositional (adjective)
A common mistake
Learners often use juxtaposition when they simply mean 'placing near each other' without the implication of comparison or contrast; the word typically suggests intentional positioning for comparative effect rather than accidental proximity.
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