contraste
nounCEFR B2
What does “contraste” mean in English?
contrast — a noticeable difference when comparing two or more things
contrast — a noticeable difference when comparing two or more things (en contraste con, el contraste entre X e Y, un contraste marcado)
Example sentences
El contraste entre el discurso oficial y la realidad cotidiana de la mayoría no podría ser más evidente.
The contrast between official rhetoric and the everyday reality of the majority could not be more evident.
En contraste con las medidas adoptadas en el norte, las regiones del sur no han recibido ningún apoyo.
In contrast with the measures adopted in the north, the regions in the south have received no support.
El fotógrafo captura el contraste entre la riqueza extrema y la pobreza más absoluta en una sola imagen.
The photographer captures the contrast between extreme wealth and absolute poverty in a single image.
How to use it
El contraste means 'contrast' — a noticeable difference when comparing two or more things. At B2 it is a key discourse noun: en contraste con, un contraste llamativo/marcado, establecer/destacar un contraste. The verb contrastar (to contrast, to compare critically) is equally important. Key collocations: el contraste entre X e Y, en contraste con lo anterior, a modo de contraste. Used in essay writing to introduce a point that diverges from what has just been stated.
Common mistake
Contraste (notable difference between two things) vs diferencia (difference — more neutral, not necessarily notable) vs oposición (opposition — implies active tension or conflict). 'In contrast to' = en contraste con (not *en contraste a). The fixed phrase por contraste (by contrast) is also used as a cohesive device. Contrastar (verb) can also mean to verify/check (contrastar la información = to cross-check information) — context distinguishes.