Words / C1

jukst-uh-p-uh-ZISHUN/ˌdʒʌkstəpəˈzɪʃn/

Juxtaposition is the placing of two things side by side, often to make a contrast visible: wealth next to poverty. Contrast can be the difference itself; juxtaposition is the act of putting them together. Contrast / combination are everyday. Juxtapose is the verb. It is a critic’s and academic word; in speech, side by side or next to each other will do.

Meaning

The fact of placing two things together, especially to show contrast.

Examples

• “The juxtaposition of wealth and poverty shocked him.”
• “The film’s juxtaposition of home video and news footage is deliberate.”
• “Her essay rests on a juxtaposition of two case studies, not a survey.”

Good to know

the juxtaposition of A and B. Verb: juxtapose. Everyday: placing side by side (for contrast).

Near in meaning

contrast

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