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by contrast

American  
[bahy kon-trast] / ˌbaɪ ˈkɒn træst /

idiom

  1. (used when making a comparison to something strikingly different from what was previously mentioned).

    Theater costumes must be viewed from a distance; film, by contrast, is all about close-ups.


Etymology

Origin of by contrast

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Quantum computing, by contrast, “just in its nature of being able to have infinite outcomes at each bit, can look at lots and lots of different outcomes at the same time,” Newman said.

From MarketWatch • May 22, 2026

Pakistan, by contrast, said Trump deserved the Nobel Peace Prize.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

Mr. Xi’s restraint, by contrast, made it appear as if he viewed Mr. Trump as the beseeching party in the relationship.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 15, 2026

West Ham, by contrast, are sliding at the worst possible moment.

From BBC • May 12, 2026

E & J, by contrast, had a far more ornate bottle: more squat, like a decanter, with smoked glass, foil wrapping around the spout, and a dark, richly textured label.

From "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell

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