Comparison & Contrast Paragraphs
Comparison shows how two things are alike; contrast shows how they are different. A comparison/contrast paragraph develops a topic by examining two subjects point by point.
Comparison structures (similarity): the same … as, similar to, like, just as … so, both, likewise, in the same way. Contrast structures (difference): unlike, whereas, on the other hand, in contrast, while, differs from, however.
| Sentence | Comparative / contrastive structure |
|---|---|
| Kennedy was killed on the same day as Lincoln. | the same … as |
| Kennedy's death was similar to Lincoln's in that both died in office. | similar to |
| Like Lincoln, Kennedy refused to heed his secretary's warning. | like |
| Unlike the extrovert, the introvert shuns excitement. | unlike |
| The extrovert loses his temper, whereas the introvert keeps control. | whereas |
Example (comparison — Lincoln & Kennedy): Are you aware of the striking similarities between Lincoln and Kennedy? Both men had their elections challenged. Lincoln became president in 1860; Kennedy, in 1960. Just as Lincoln was succeeded by a Southern Democrat named Johnson, so was Kennedy.
Example (contrast — extrovert & introvert): The typical extrovert is fond of people and parties. The typical introvert, on the other hand, is a quiet, retiring person. Whereas the extrovert is aggressive, the introvert keeps his feelings under control.
Tip: Repeating the two subjects' names and using pronoun reference keeps the paragraph cohesive. Decide first whether the topic sentence promises similarities or differences.
Common mistake: Mixing similarities and differences randomly. Pick a focus (or organise clearly), and use the right signal words for each.
✏️ Test Yourself
1. "Unlike", "whereas", "on the other hand"
2. "Both", "similar to", "just as … so"
3. "The same day as" shows ___ .
4. "In contrast" shows ___ .
📒 Words to learn
Meaning — Remaining food or other items that are not used or consumed during a meal or activity.
“He had leftovers for dinner last night.”
Meaning — A person who enjoys telling stories, often in a gossipy or exaggerated manner.
“He is a taleteller.”
Meaning — Very quickly or suddenly.
“He was killed in a flash.”
Meaning — A person who selflessly seeks the well-being and happiness of others, often putting their needs before their own.
“Sir Allah dad was an altruist.”
Meaning — To annoy, irritate, or frustrate someone intensely.
“Despite exasperating, I didn't beat him.”