Compare vs. Contrast

Compare describes the differences and similarites between two things to view one in relation to the other.

Contrast describes the differences between two things.

Comparison chart

Compare versus Contrast comparison chart

	Compare	Contrast
Meaning	to represent as similar (liken); to examine the character or qualities of especially in order to discover resemblances or differences; to view in relation to.	compare or appraise in respect to differences
Example	Comparing the Vietnam War to the Korean War, it is evident that the main reason America fought each of these wars was to keep independent nations from succumbing to communist control.	In contrast to full-term infant, a premature infant is born before 37 weeks of gestation.

References

• http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contrast
• http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compare

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"Compare vs Contrast." Diffen.com. Diffen LLC, n.d. Web. 5 Sep 2025. < >