# juxtaposition

/ˌdʒəkstəpəˈzɪʃən/ (US) · /dʒˌʌkstɐpəzˈɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/juxtaposition
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. contrast by placement

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

putting two different things together to show how they are different or to create a surprising effect.

For teachers: the act or instance of placing two or more things side by side, often to compare or contrast them, or to create an interesting effect.

- The juxtaposition of the modern building next to the old church was very striking.
- The exhibition was praised for its clever juxtaposition of classical oil paintings and gritty, modern street photography.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'of' followed by two nouns, or 'between' two things.

### 2. physical nearness

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical · Formal

the state of being physically very close together.

For teachers: the state of being close together or side by side; physical contiguity.

- The juxtaposition of the two houses made the narrow street feel even smaller.
- The sudden juxtaposition of the two chemical compounds caused an unexpected reaction in the test tube.

Usage: Common in scientific or technical descriptions of physical layout.

## Examples

- The painting shows a striking juxtaposition of light and dark colours.
- The director used the juxtaposition of loud rock music and a peaceful landscape to surprise the audience.
- The novel relies heavily on the juxtaposition of the protagonist's wealthy upbringing with the extreme poverty of her new city, highlighting the stark inequalities of that society.

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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.