juxtapose

[juhk-stuh-pohz, juhk-stuh-pohz]

verb (used with object)

juxtaposed, juxtaposing 

1. to place close together or side by side, especially with an arresting or surprising effect, or in a way that invites comparison or contrast.

juxtapose

/ ˌdʒʌkstəˈpəʊz /

verb

1. (tr) to place close together or side by side

Other Word Forms

• juxtapositional adjective
• juxtaposition noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of juxtapose¹

First recorded in 1850–55; back formation from juxtaposition

Word History and Origins

Origin of juxtapose¹

C19: back formation from juxtaposition, from Latin juxta next to + _position

Example Sentences

A poster for the attraction showcases the Statue of Liberty juxtaposed with the American flag and bald eagle.

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“I tend not to get too political, but it seems just rather juxtaposed to me that an anti-regulation administration is using regulation in this way. They’re supposed to be removing barriers to healthcare.”

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In an show of narrative justice, the documentary juxtaposes Tim’s righteous monologues against the Vietnam War and social inequality with scenes of Guibert and their son celebrating milestones in his absence.

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“How would we juxtapose that with an inner monologue that is more expressive?” he says.

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Another painting honours Charlie Chaplin while juxtaposing a rocket launch to highlight the contrast between social and economic disparities and massive state spending.

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