Words / B2

k-uh-m-PAR-isn/kəmˈpærɪsn/

A comparison is the act of looking at two things to see how they are similar or different: a comparison of two methods, in comparison with / to. Contrast stresses difference; analogy is a structured likeness. Compare is the verb. By comparison and in comparison with are set phrases. In speech, looking at both / compared with is enough. A useful comparison needs a shared basis — do not compare a marathon with a spelling test and call it analysis.

Meaning

The act of looking at two things to see how they are similar or different.

Examples

• “A comparison of the two methods is useful.”
• “A comparison of the two mark schemes showed the second was kinder on drafts.”
• “In comparison with last year, attendance has risen, not fallen.”

Good to know

comparison of + things. in / by comparison with. Verb: compare. Everyday: looking at both. Contrast: contrast (difference), analogy (likeness).

Near in meaning

contrast

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