# juxtaposed

/ˌdʒəkstəˈpoʊzd/ (US) · /dʒˈʌkstɐpˌəʊzd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/juxtaposed
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

placed next to something else to show how they are different. You use this when you want to compare two things by putting them together.

For teachers: placed or existing side by side to form a contrast or comparison. Often used in literary or visual contexts to highlight differences in style, theme, or appearance.

## Examples

- The dark and light colors are juxtaposed in the painting.
- The director juxtaposed scenes of peaceful nature with the chaos of the city to show the contrast.
- In the novel, the author juxtaposes the protagonist's childhood innocence with the harsh realities of adult life to create a powerful emotional arc.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.