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juxtaposition

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
juxtaposition

Juxtaposition refers to the act of placing two or more things side-by-side, specifically to highlight their differences or create an interesting contrast. Imagine holding a bright, neon-colored flower next to a rusted, gray piece of scrap metal; the act of putting them together forces the viewer to notice how the beauty of one emphasizes the decay of the other. This word is most commonly used in literary analysis, art criticism, and photography to describe how artists manipulate elements to provoke thought. While it sounds quite academic, you can use it in everyday life when you notice a striking contrast, such as the juxtaposition of a quiet library located right next to a loud, bustling construction site.

In conversation

Discussing a movie

Did you notice the scene in the park?

Did you notice the scene in the park?

Yes, the juxtaposition of the peaceful ducks and the angry protest was intense.

Yes, the juxtaposition of the peaceful ducks and the angry protest was intense.

Used here to describe a purposeful contrast between two elements in a film.

Interior design

I like how you put that modern lamp on the antique table.

I like how you put that modern lamp on the antique table.

Thanks! I love the juxtaposition of old and new styles.

Thanks! I love the juxtaposition of old and new styles.

Refers to the aesthetic effect of mixing different styles.

Examples

  1. The artist used a juxtaposition of light and shadow to create drama.

    The artist used a juxtaposition of light and shadow to create drama.

  2. Her novel relies on the juxtaposition of urban poverty and extreme wealth.

    Her novel relies on the juxtaposition of urban poverty and extreme wealth.

  3. The architect played with the juxtaposition of glass surfaces and raw concrete to define the building's facade.

    The architect played with the juxtaposition of glass surfaces and raw concrete to define the building's facade.

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