What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contrasting
Example
The contrasting colors of the flowers made for a beautiful display. [contrasting: adjective]
Example
The author used contrasting imagery to highlight the difference between the two characters. [contrasting: gerund or present participle]
different
Example
The two dresses were different in style and color. [different: adjective]
Example
The new recipe was different from the original, with a unique blend of spices. [different: preposition]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Different is more commonly used than contrasting in everyday language. Different is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while contrasting is less common and typically used in more formal or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contrasting and different?
While different is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, contrasting is more formal and typically used in academic or professional settings.
