対比

• Reading: たいひ
• Romaji: taihi
• Kanji breakdown: 対 (tai/tsui) — facing, against, pair; 比 (hi/kura) — to compare, ratio
• Pronunciation: /ta.i.çi/

Meaning

Contrast; comparison. Placing two things side by side to highlight their differences.

A する verb (対比する) used to contrast or compare two or more things, emphasising their differences. Common in academic writing, literary analysis, art criticism, and photography. Unlike 比較 (comparison, which can be neutral), 対比 specifically highlights opposing qualities. Common phrases include 鮮やかな対比 (vivid contrast).

Examples

1. 都会と田舎の生活を対比して論文を書いた。 I wrote a paper contrasting urban and rural life.
2. 白と黒の対比が作品に力強さを与えている。 The contrast of black and white gives the work a sense of power.
3. 二つの時代を対比すると価値観の変化がわかる。 Comparing the two eras reveals how values have changed.

Usage Guide

Context: academic writing, art criticism, literary analysis

Tone: analytical

Origin & History

Compound of 対 (tai, facing/against) + 比 (hi, to compare). Literally 'facing comparison,' emphasising the act of putting two things face-to-face to examine their differences.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated