Word
stark
Phoneticsstark
US/ˈstɑɹk/
UK/stˈɑːk/
Definitions
01plain and harsh
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. empty, simple, or harsh in a way that is not attractive.
adj. barren, desolate, or severely simple in appearance; lacking any decorative or softening features.
“The landscape was stark and grey, with no trees or flowers in sight.”
“The architect's minimalist design left the room feeling somewhat stark, with nothing but white concrete walls and a single metal chair.”
02sharp contrast
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. very easy to see because it is so different from something else.
adj. sharply delineated or evident; providing a clear and often unpleasant contrast.
“There is a stark difference between the lives of the rich and the poor.”
“The white mountains stood in stark contrast against the deep blue of the winter sky, creating a perfectly clear horizon line.”
03complete or total
C1 · Advanced Formal
adj. total or complete — usually used to describe something negative like madness or fear.
adj. complete, utter, or absolute; typically used to intensify nouns with negative connotations.
“The news came as a stark reminder of how dangerous the journey could be.”
“The prisoner stared at the wall in a state of stark terror, realizing that no help was coming from the outside world.”
04completely
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adv. completely or totally.
adv. entirely or absolutely; almost exclusively used in the fixed phrase 'stark naked'.
“The children ran stark naked into the lake for a quick swim.”
“The witness claimed to have seen a figure running stark naked across the lawn in the middle of the night.”
Synonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “stark” in context.
Adjective
01. stark contrast
“The luxury of the city center stands in stark contrast to the poverty found in the outskirts.”
adj + noun
Usage
Commonly used in the fixed phrase 'stark contrast' or 'stark reality'.
Real-World Examples
“England and Wales can expect temperatures of 18-22C by Thursday, a stark difference to the same time last week but much more in line with average temperatures for this time of year.” “It's a stark example of how an environmental disaster in one place can poison land and livelihoods far beyond its borders.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- C1 · AdvancedOxford
- Updated
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