What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
apposition
Example
The painting showcased the apposition of vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes. [apposition: noun]
Example
In the sentence 'My friend, a talented musician, played the piano,' the phrase 'a talented musician' is in apposition to 'my friend.' [apposition: noun]
juxtaposition
Example
The photograph captured the juxtaposition of a dilapidated building against a modern skyscraper. [juxtaposition: noun]
Example
The poet used the juxtaposition of light and darkness to convey the theme of hope and despair. [juxtaposition: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Juxtaposition is more commonly used than apposition in everyday language, especially in artistic and literary contexts. Juxtaposition is a versatile term that can be applied to various situations, while apposition is more specific and commonly used in technical or academic discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between apposition and juxtaposition?
While apposition is typically associated with a more formal or technical tone due to its usage in grammar and linguistics, juxtaposition can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it more flexible in terms of formality.