in contrast to

Meaning

This prepositional phrase is used to compare two things and emphasize the clear differences between them. It is placed before a noun or noun phrase to show how it differs sharply from the subject of the main clause. It is a staple of comparative academic essays and scientific reports.

Examples

• In contrast to her predecessor, the new director is highly approachable and open to feedback.

  In contrast to her predecessor, the new director is highly approachable and open to feedback.

• The city's southern district is highly industrial, in contrast to the green, residential north.

  The city's southern district is highly industrial, in contrast to the green, residential north.

• In contrast to the previous study, our findings suggest that temperature plays a minor role.

  In contrast to the previous study, our findings suggest that temperature plays a minor role.

• The company's stock price soared today, in contrast to its competitors' steady decline.

  The company's stock price soared today, in contrast to its competitors' steady decline.

• In contrast to traditional teaching methods, online learning offers students greater flexibility.

  In contrast to traditional teaching methods, online learning offers students greater flexibility.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ In contrast of his brother, he is very quiet.

  ✓ In contrast to his brother, he is very quiet.

  The correct preposition after 'contrast' in this phrase is 'to' (or sometimes 'with'), never 'of'.

• ✗ In contrast to online shopping is convenient, physical stores offer personal service.

  ✓ In contrast to online shopping, which is convenient, physical stores offer personal service.

  'In contrast to' must be followed by a noun or noun phrase, not a complete independent clause.

Related Expressions

Practice

• ___ last year's freezing winter, this year has been incredibly mild.

  💡 Start the sentence by comparing this year's winter to last year's.

  Show answer

  In contrast to

• The private sector expanded rapidly, ___ the public sector, which remained stagnant.

  💡 Highlight the difference between the private and public sectors.

  Show answer

  in contrast to