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28 Juxtaposition Examples + How to Use It Effectively When Writing

• Updated: 03/04/24
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Juxtaposition, a literary technique used by writers across multiple genres, often catches readers off-guard, making an otherwise standard narrative suddenly interesting and insightful.

This powerful tool, when expertly wielded, can illuminate contrasts, deepen characterizations, and highlight the intricacies of a plot.

In this article, we’ll explore the juxtaposition definition, use cases, and 28 juxtaposition examples in a variety of contexts.

We’ll also share some tips on how you can incorporate this technique into your own writing for maximum effect.

Prepare to dive into a world where the unexpected becomes the norm and ordinary descriptions transform into compelling storytelling.

What is Juxtaposition?

Juxtaposition is a literary technique where two or more ideas, places, characters, or actions are placed side by side in a narrative or a poem for the purpose of developing comparisons and contrasts.

This literary device is widely used in literature to highlight contrasting concepts or profound similarities between the elements involved.

Through juxtaposition, writers can effectively emphasize the contrast between opposing elements, creating a powerful, thought-provoking effect that engages the reader’s emotions and intellect.

Other Literary Devices Like Juxtaposition

There are other literary devices that can be used to create a contrast between elements.

• Irony , for example, involves the use of words or phrases that convey an unexpected meaning or contrast with what is expected.
• Simile and metaphor are both forms of comparison, where two seemingly disparate things are compared in order to produce a vivid image in the reader’s mind.
• Oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines two opposing terms to create a clever paradox.
• Hyperbole is the use of exaggerated language for emphasis or effect.

Finally, litotes is a form of understatement where an affirmative statement is made by using negatives to create emphasis and irony.

When to Use Juxtaposition

Juxtaposition is an effective tool for creating a memorable narrative.

When used properly, it can create powerful visuals and meaningful associations that would otherwise be lost without the comparison of separate elements.

Whether it’s to make readers laugh or to emphasize a change in tone, juxtaposition can be used in many different ways.

Here are some examples of when to use it in writing:

• To emphasize a contrast between two ideas, characters, or situations.
• To create a comedic effect by using unexpected elements.
• To acknowledge the complexity of a certain situation without explicitly stating it.
• To create a surprise element in the narrative.
• To evoke emotion in the reader.

Next, we’ll dive into some juxtaposition examples to help you get a better idea of when and how you can use this literary device.

25 Examples of Juxtaposition

Here are 25 examples of juxtaposition in a variety of different use cases.

Juxtaposition in Literature

Let’s take a look at some juxtaposition in literature to see how this powerful narrative tool can be used to create vivid settings, compelling characters, and even entire worlds.

• Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities

In A Tale of Two Cities, Charles Dickens wrote “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.”

This opening line of the novel is a classic example of complete opposites which immediately draws the reader in and sets up the dichotomy between each city – Paris and London.

• Ernest Hemingway, The Old Man and the Sea

In The Old Man and the Sea, Ernest Hemingway wrote “Everything about him was old except his eyes and they were the same color as the sea.”

Here, Hemingway cleverly juxtaposes the old man’s physical age with his youthful spirit, emphasizing his resilience despite seemingly insurmountable odds.

• George Orwell, Animal Farm

George Orwell wrote “All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”

This line juxtaposes the farm’s egalitarian ideals with the oppressive hierarchy that exists in reality – a message that speaks to readers even today.

• John Steinbeck, Of Mice and Men

In Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck wrote “The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.”

This quote juxtaposes the symbolic figures of mice, who are small and helpless, with men, who appear to be powerful but are still subject to fate.

• William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet

In Romeo and Juliet, William Shakespeare wrote “My only love sprung from my only hate!”

This quote juxtaposes the two opposing emotions of love and hate in one powerful line, emphasizing the tragic romance between the two protagonists.

Juxtaposition in Poetry

Poetry is an excellent medium for exploring the complexities of juxtaposition.

Let’s take a look at some common examples of juxtaposition in poetry:

• Robert Frost, The Road Not Taken

In “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost, the poet writes “Two roads diverged in a wood, … and I took the one less traveled by.”

Through the stark contrast of these two paths, Frost conveys a message about the importance of making difficult decisions and following your own path.

• William Wordsworth, The World Is Too Much With Us

In “The World Is Too Much With Us” by William Wordsworth, the poet wrote “Little we see in Nature that is ours.”

Wordsworth juxtaposes the idea of human ownership with nature’s beauty and power, a timeless message about appreciating the natural world.

• Emily Dickinson, Hope Is the Thing With Feathers

In “Hope Is the Thing With Feathers” by Emmy Dickinson, the poet wrote “Though the way be stormy, it will still survive.”

Here, Dickinson juxtaposes storms with hope in order to convey a message of optimism and strength in hard times.

• Edward Estlin Cummings, I Carry Your Heart With Me

In “I Carry Your Heart with Me” by E.E. Cummings, the poet wrote “i carry your heart with me (i carry it in my heart).”

This quote juxtaposes two seemingly opposite emotions – love and physicality – to emphasize the depth of emotion that can be felt in a relationship.

• Robert Hayden, Those Winter Sundays

In “Those Winter Sundays” by Robert Hayden, the poet writes “No one ever thanked him.”

This simple line juxtaposes the idea of appreciation and gratitude with its absence for an emotional impact that speaks to readers even today.

Juxtaposition in Film

Film is an excellent medium for exploring juxtaposed concepts through visual storytelling.

Let’s take a look at some juxtaposition examples in film:

• The Godfather

In The Godfather, the differences of its main character Michael Corleone’s transformation from an innocent bystander to a ruthless mob boss is masterfully used to evoke emotion in viewers and emphasize the power of corruption.

• The Shawshank Redemption

The Shawshank Redemption tells the story of Andy Dufresne, a man wrongly convicted of murdering his wife.

The juxtaposition between Andy’s hope for a better life and the stark reality of his imprisonment paints a powerful story of resilience.

• The Wizard of Oz

The Wizard of Oz tells the story of Dorothy Gale and her journey to the mythical Land of Oz.

Throughout her adventures, the differences between fantasy and reality is used as a narrative tool to emphasize Dorothy’s longing for home and the importance of friendship.

• Jurassic Park

Jurassic Park tells the story of a theme park populated by dinosaurs created with modern science.

The juxtaposition between the prehistoric creatures and modern technology conveys a message about the power and potential dangers of scientific advancements.

• Forrest Gump

Forrest Gump is a classic example of juxtaposition in film, with its main character’s simple outlook on life being contrasted against the complex nature of life itself.

By placing Forrest’s naive musings against moments of deep insight, director Robert Zemeckis shows how even the simplest person can be profound.

Juxtaposition in Advertising

Highlighting contrast and differences can also be used to create powerful and memorable advertising campaigns.

Let’s take a look at a few examples of juxtaposition in advertising:

• Nike ‘Just Do It’ Campaign

The Nike ‘Just Do It’ campaign is a perfect example of juxtaposition in advertising, with its simple slogan contrasting against the complexity and difficulty of pushing yourself physically.

The message — that greatness takes hard work and perseverance — resonates with viewers even today.

• Apple ‘Think Different’ Campaign

Apple’s ‘Think Different’ campaign highlights the juxtaposed normality of daily life against the potential power of thinking differently.

The campaign conveys a powerful message that creative thought can lead to extraordinary things.

• Coca-Cola ‘Open Happiness’ Campaign

The Coca-Cola ‘Open Happiness’ campaign shares a message of joy and hope contrasting against life’s everyday struggles.

The idea of seeking joy in the little things is a powerful reminder that happiness can be found even in the most difficult situations.

• Burger King ‘Be Your Way’ Campaign

The message in this campaign shares the two elements of individuality and conformity, contrasting individualism against an ever-increasing focus on conformity and sameness in society.

The campaign conveys a powerful message about the importance of staying true to yourself, no matter what others may think.

Juxtaposition in Everyday Life

Let’s take a look at some juxtaposition examples in everyday life that can be used to emphasize ideas, evoke emotions, and more.

• A Vividly Colored Flower Growing Out of Concrete

This is a powerful reminder that beauty can be found even in the most unlikely places.

The contrast between something as vibrant and alive as a flower growing out of something as hard and grey as concrete speaks to the resilience and potential that exists within all of us.

• Contrasting a Thrill Seekers Excitement with a Fearful Reaction

We all experience moments of fear and excitement, but our ideas of what is scary and what is exciting can vary greatly.

The thrill seeker’s enthusiasm juxtaposed with the fearful reaction of someone else over the same situation emphasizes how everyone responds to life’s experiences in their own unique way.

• A Sunset Against an Industrial Landscape

The beautiful colors of a sunset juxtaposed with the harsh lines of industrial structures speaks is a powerful reminder that while industrialization has brought great advances, nature still holds beauty and power that can’t be replicated.

• The Smiling Face of a Child During a Difficult Time

This example of juxtaposition emphasizes the idea that even during challenging times, joy and hope still exist.

The contrast between the tough reality of a difficult situation and the child’s smiling face is an inspiring reminder of the potential for hope and happiness, no matter the circumstances.

Juxtaposition in Song Lyrics

Juxtaposition can also be found in song lyrics, adding an extra layer of emotion and meaning to the words.

Let’s take a look at some examples of juxtaposition in song lyrics:

• Elton John, ‘Tiny Dancer’

In his song “Tiny Dancer”, Elton John writes “Hold me closer tiny dancer.”

This juxtaposes the idea of strength and fragility – a powerful reminder that even the strongest among us need love and support.

• The Beatles, ‘Let It Be’

In their song “Let It Be”, The Beatles write “When I find myself in times of trouble, Mother Mary comes to me.”

Here, the juxtaposed concepts of faith and personal struggle speaks to listeners of all backgrounds.

• Simon & Garfunkel, ‘The Sound of Silence’

In their song “The Sound of Silence”, Simon & Garfunkel write “People talking without speaking.”

This juxtaposes communication and silence to emphasize the power of words when used effectively.

• Bob Dylan, ‘Blowin’ in the Wind’

In his song “Blowin’ in the Wind”, Bob Dylan writes “How many roads must a man walk down before you call him a man?”

This juxtaposes physical and symbolic journeys to emphasize the idea that true strength comes from within.

• The Rolling Stones, ‘(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction’

In their song “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”, The Rolling Stones write “Try to give me satisfaction but I can’t get no.”

This juxtaposes the idea of happiness and unhappiness to emphasize how difficult it is to find true contentment in life.

How to Use Juxtaposition in Your Writing

Now that you’ve seen some examples of how juxtaposition is used in literature and poetry, let’s look at some tips on how you can incorporate this technique into your own writing.

• Start with an interesting opening line. – This will draw the reader in and create anticipation for the rest of your work.
• Compare two seemingly opposite elements. – By comparing two opposing elements, you can emphasize their differences and illustrate a point in a more effective way.
• Use vivid imagery . – This will help to make the contrasts between the elements stand out even more and create a stronger emotional response from readers.
• Be careful not to overuse juxtaposition. – Too much of this technique can become distracting and take away from the main message of your writing.

By following these tips, you can use juxtaposed ideas in your writing to create powerful visuals, meaningful associations, and memorable narratives that will engage readers.

FAQs About Juxtaposition Examples

A common example of juxtaposition is the term “bittersweet”, where two elements – bitterness and sweetness – are placed together to create contrast and poignant meaning. This literary device is often used in poetry and prose to enhance the narrative and evoke deeper understanding.

A real-life example of juxtaposition could be the planting of a flourishing garden in the midst of an otherwise barren and desolate urban landscape. This juxtaposition highlights the stark contrast between the natural beauty of the garden and the dull, monotonous urban surroundings, thereby emphasizing the resilience and vitality of nature.

Juxtaposition in a sentence involves placing two or more ideas, characters, actions, or settings side by side in a narrative or a poem, for the purpose of comparison or contrast. For instance, in the sentence “He was a gentle giant,” the juxtaposition of “gentle” and “giant” creates a contrast that deepens our understanding of the character described.

A famous example of juxtaposition can be seen in Martin Luther King Jr’s “I Have a Dream” speech, where he juxtaposes his dream of racial equality with the harsh reality of discrimination. This powerful contrast serves to highlight the stark difference between the existing racial inequality and his vision of a harmonious future, thus deepening the emotional impact of his speech.

Summary of Juxtaposition Examples

Juxtaposition refers to the placement of two or more contrasting elements side by side in order to create contrast and meaning.

This technique has been used by writers and poets for centuries and can be seen in various forms, such as song lyrics, literature, and daily life.

When used properly, juxtaposition can create vivid imagery, evoke emotional responses, and provide readers with insight into the narrative or poem.

We hope that these examples and tips have given you a better understanding of how to use juxtaposed ideas in your writing.

Writing is a creative art form, so don’t forget to experiment with a variety of literary devices to find the one that best suits your writing style.

With practice, you’ll be able to use this technique effectively and make your stories even more dynamic. Good luck!

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Juxtaposition: Definition and Examples

Hannah Yang

Juxtaposition is a literary technique that places two distinctly dissimilar things side by side to bring out their differences.

Read on to learn the definition of juxtaposition and to see some of the most powerful examples of juxtaposition in literature.

What Does Juxtaposition Mean?

What is the purpose of juxtaposition in literature, what are the different types of juxtaposition, what are some examples of juxtaposition.

Whether you write essays or novels, you can make your writing more powerful by using the literary technique of juxtaposition.

Juxtaposition means placing two unrelated things next to each other to highlight their differences.

This technique is a subtle way to encourage the reader to compare and contrast two or more elements in a story: characters, settings, events, moods, and more.

Juxtaposition is usually used to accomplish one or more of the following things:

• To make the reader laugh
• To explore the relationship between two elements
• To help the reader see a single thing in a more complex way
• To teach a lesson about one thing being better than another

Let’s explore each of these goals in detail.

Juxtaposition That Makes the Reader Laugh

Sometimes, juxtaposition can be funny or absurd.

We often see rom-coms where opposites attract. The social butterfly falls for the recluse. The goody-two-shoes falls for the rule-breaker.

You can use this type of stark contrast to add an element of humor to your writing.

Juxtaposition That Explores the Relationship Between Two Elements

By bringing two dissimilar things together, you can show the reader how those two elements interact with one another.

Maybe the two unrelated ideas clash and create fertile ground for conflict. Or maybe they complement each other, each making up for what the other lacks.

One common example of juxtaposition in literary settings is the rural-urban divide.

Showing a character travel from the city to the countryside, or vice versa, helps us understand how each one complements the other.

Juxtaposition That Helps the Reader See a Single Thing in a More Complex Way

Sometimes, juxtaposition can help the reader see a single thing in a more complex way.

Showing two sides of a single character is a common way to add complexity to their personality.

For example, you might create a grumpy character who frightens all the kids in his neighborhood, but who is also exceptionally kind to the stray cat he feeds every morning.

Those two contrasting traits help the reader to see him as a three-dimensional character .

Juxtaposition That Teaches a Lesson About One Thing Being Better Than Another

Juxtaposition can also be used to impart a lesson about one thing being better than another.

Many fables famously utilize this type of juxtaposition. Aesop’s fable of the tortoise and the hare is a juxtaposition of a lazy animal with a hardworking one.

This contrast teaches children that “slow and steady wins the race.”

This type of juxtaposition is also common in action and adventure stories.

By showing good and evil side-by-side, the author makes the good guys look like the right side to root for, even when they do morally grey things in the name of their cause.

Juxtaposition refers to any type of contrast created between different things when placed side by side.

Because this is such a broad concept, there are many other literary terms that refer to specific types of juxtaposition.

Three common terms are oxymoron , character foils , and antithesis .

Are Oxymorons and Juxtaposition the Same?

When two contradictory words are used side by side, it’s a specific type of juxtaposition called an oxymoron .

For example, when Juliet says “Parting is such sweet sorrow,” the word “sweet” is juxtaposed with the word “sorrow” to show the complexity of her love—it makes her happy and sad at the same time.

Are Character Foils a Type of Juxtaposition?

The term character foil refers to juxtaposition used between two characters whose personalities or backgrounds are starkly dissimilar.

This technique helps make each character come alive for the reader.

For example, Cinderella’s kindness is made more obvious by the fact that her stepsisters are selfish and cruel.

What Is Antithesis?

Antithesis refers to the juxtaposition of two complete opposites. This is the most overt form of juxtaposition, because it relies on pairings we're all familiar with.

Here are some common examples of antithetical pairings that are often used in literature:

• Good and evil
• Light and darkness
• Beauty and ugliness
• The old and the new
• Civilization and nature

Let’s take a look at some examples of how some successful authors have used juxtaposition in their novels.

A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness [...] – in short, the period was so far like the present period, that some of its noisiest authorities insisted on its being received, for good or for evil, in the superlative degree of comparison only.

In this opening paragraph, Charles Dickens shows the inequality in society before the French Revolution by contrasting the way different people experience the time period.

For some people, it’s the age of light, while for others, it’s the age of darkness.

This passage is perhaps the most famous example of juxtaposition in literature. The entire novel is full of pairs and doubles, even the title itself.

When including juxtaposition in your writing, it can be hard to think of interesting synonyms and antonyms. This is where ProWritingAid’s Word Explorer can help.

When you input a word, the tool can not only help you find synonyms, but also help you overcome your writer’s block. It does this by providing examples 14 ways to look at the word, including providing examples from popular literature.

Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck

The first man was small and quick, dark of face, with restless eyes and sharp, strong features. [...] Behind him walked his opposite, a huge man, shapeless of face, with large, pale eyes, and wide, sloping shoulders...

This paragraph introduces Lennie and George, the two protagonists of the story. It’s clear right away that they’re complete opposites.

Physically, this passage shows that one of these men is small and sharp, while the other is large and shapeless.

John Steinbeck will continue to juxtapose their personalities throughout the story: Lennie is innocent, while George is jaded.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Chicken and chunks of orange cooked in a cream sauce laid on a bed of pearly white grain, tiny green peas and onions [...] I try to imagine assembling this meal myself back home. Chickens are too expensive, but I could make do with a wild turkey. I’d need to shoot a second turkey to trade for an orange. Goat’s milk would have to substitute for cream. We can grow peas in the garden. I’d have to get wild onions in the woods.

This passage describes Katniss eating a lavish meal in the Capitol after having spent most of her life starving in District 12. Collins uses juxtaposition to show how much inequality there is in Panem.

Aside from the differences in what people eat, she also shows stark differences in how they dress, speak, and entertain themselves.

The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan

I opened up the Schumann book to the dark little piece I had played at the recital. It was on the left-hand page, “Pleading Child.” It looked more difficult than I remembered. I played a few bars, surprised at how easily the notes came back to me. And for the first time, or so it seemed, I noticed the piece on the right-hand side. It was called “Perfectly Contented.” I tried to play this one as well. It had a lighter melody but with the same flowing rhythm and turned out to be quite easy. “Pleading Child” was shorter but slower; “Perfectly Contented” was longer but faster. And after I had played them both a few times, I realized they were two halves of the same song.

This passage in The Joy Luck Club is a fantastic example of juxtaposition.

The two musical pieces the daughter plays feel very different from each other, until she realizes they’re two halves of the same song.

In some ways, the juxtaposition between these two songs represents the juxtaposition of the relationship between the mother and daughter in this book.

It’s a subtle way to create a deeper understanding of how each woman views the other.

Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor

The alchemist and the librarian, they couldn’t have been more different—as though Shres, the bastard god of fortune, had stood them side by side and divided his basket of gifts between them: every gift to Thyron Nero, one by one, until the very last, which he dropped in the dirt at Lazlo’s feet. To Thyron Nero: birth, wealth, privilege, looks, charm, brilliance. And to Lazlo Strange, to pick up and dust off, the one thing left over: honor.

In this final example, Laini Taylor contrasts two characters, a protagonist named Lazlo Strange and an antagonist named Thyon Nero.

We already know that Thyron Nero is a golden boy who has everything he could ever need, and that Lazlo Strange is a poor orphan who has nothing but honor.

When we see them side-by-side, however, this becomes even clearer, and sets up their relationship for the story to come.

Final Thoughts

Using juxtaposition in your writing can help create contrast that engages your readers and makes them think.

What are some examples of juxtaposition you’ve seen in your favorite books? Let us know in the comments.

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Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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Juxtaposition

Definition of juxtaposition.

Juxtaposition is a literary device that implies comparison or contrast . Writers create juxtaposition by placing two entities side by side to create dramatic or ironic contrast. Juxtaposition is a form of implied comparison in that there is no overt comparison or inference on the part of the writer. This allows the reader to discern how the paired entities are similar or different. The effect of this literary device is a more profound understanding of contrast and creating a sense of fate or inevitability in the comparison.

For example, in the movie adaptation of The Wizard of Oz , filmmakers effectively juxtapose black and white film with bright technicolor to showcase the differences between Kansas and Oz. Though Oz is bright, colorful, and whimsical compared to the harsh gray of Kansas, Dorothy realizes that her home in Kansas is where she belongs and is happy. The juxtaposition of such contrasting places highlights the inevitable decision that Dorothy must make about returning to home and reality.

Common Examples of Juxtaposition

Writers use juxtaposition for rhetorical effect by placing two entities side by side in order to highlight their differences. These divergent elements can include people, ideas, things, places, behaviors, and characteristics. Here are some common examples of entities that are juxtaposed for artistic effect:

• light and darkness
• acceptance and isolation
• youth and experience
• wealth and poverty
• Beauty and ugliness
• Virtue and vice
• family and outsiders
• wisdom and foolishness
• familiar and strange
• passion and apathy
• good and evil
• urban and rural
• warmth and cold
• modern and antiquated
• Courage and cowardice
• male and female
• jealousy and trust
• civilization and nature
• free will and fate
• forgiveness and revenge

Famous Examples of Juxtaposition in Novels and Stories

Many novels and stories are well-known due to their juxtaposition of ideas, settings , characters, and themes . Here are some famous examples of juxtaposition in familiar novels and stories:

• East Egg and West Egg in  The Great Gatsby
• Individual thought and groupthink in 1984
• wealth and poverty in  The Prince and the Pauper
• land and sea in  moby dick
• human and animal instinct in Life of Pi
• Kindness and selfishness in  Cinderella
• Lennie (innocent) and George (jaded) in  Of Mice and Men
• Muggle and wizard worlds in  Harry Potter Series
• frontier and civilization in  The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
• freedom and confinement in  To Kill a Mockingbird

Difference Between Juxtaposition and Foil

It can be difficult to distinguish between juxtaposition and foil as literary devices . In fact, foil is a form of juxtaposition. Both of these devices are based o n implied comparisons created by the writer. However, foil is limited to the juxtaposition of characters.

As a literary device, foil specifically refers to contrasts between characters within the same narrative . A writer uses the juxtaposition of two characters as foils in order to emphasize their disparate qualities or character traits. For example, in John Steinbeck ’s East of Eden,  Cal and Aron are brothers and foils for each other. Their characters are juxtaposed to showcase the differences in their natures, as Cal is dark and secretive while Aron is delicate and beloved .

Juxtaposition, as a literary device, is not limited to characters. With juxtaposition, any entities such as ideas, places, and things, can be placed side by side to invite comparison and create an ironic effect.

Writing Juxtaposition

Writers can achieve a great deal when they juxtapose two elements. By putting two entities side by side, writers invite the reader to compare and contrast, considering the relationship between the elements with closer scrutiny. Juxtaposition can have the effect of absurdity or humor , or create a link between elements and images that appear unrelated until they are paired.

Writers can also reveal truths about a character through contrasting their traits with another, to achieve a foil. Juxtaposition can demonstrate that one idea or element is better when compared to another, and often readers gain a greater understanding of nuances of traits or concepts through juxtaposition.

It’s important for writers to understand that there must be a sense of logic and intention in juxtaposing two entities within a narrative or poem . As a literary technique, juxtaposition is more than simply putting one entity beside another and inviting the reader to make a comparison between them. There must be meaning in the juxtaposition so that some aspect of the literary work becomes more significant to a reader.

Juxtaposition and Antithesis

Although it seems that juxtaposition and antithesis are two similar terms, they are poles apart in meanings and sense. An antithesis is a specific term, whereas a juxtaposition is a general device. Antithesis puts two ideas or concepts that often contradict each other. Contrary to the antithesis, juxtaposed concepts or ideas or things are dissimilar and do not necessarily contradict each other. Even the name suggests that juxtaposition means putting side by side while antithesis means putting against each other.

Juxtaposition and Oxymoron

The difference between juxtaposition and oxymoron is mostly obscure. A juxtaposition is placing dissimilar ideas or objects or things together for the sake of contrast and comparison. However, an oxymoron shows the placing of two contradictory ideas, depicting a single and strong sense of the words which, though, seems opposite yet is strongly associated with the other word in showing true meanings. For example, a pretty ugly boy is an oxymoron as it is just a phrase . However, if it is twisted to become a juxtaposition it would be; a pretty boy has come across and an ugly boy has passed along.

Use of Juxtaposition in Sentences

• What do you think is good for me is good for all the students?
• Most of the time Ricky ponders over his fate and often he ponders over his luck.
• Some people may get fed up soon while some may take years in becoming furious.
• One example does not mean all is bad and all is fair does not mean all is good.
• Some may come at night and some during the day but all will come what come may.

Examples of Juxtaposition in Literature

Juxtaposition, or the technique of comparison and contrast, appears in all forms of artistic expression. In literature, juxtaposition is an effective literary device in that readers gain greater meaning through measuring the tension of similarities and differences between two paired elements.

Here are some examples of juxtaposition in literature and how this literary device adds to the value of literary works:

Example 1:  Naming of Parts (Henry Reed)

This is the safety-catch, which is always released With an easy flick of the thumb. And please do not let me See anyone using his finger. You can do it quite easy If you have any strength in your thumb. The blossoms Are fragile and motionless, never letting anyone see Any of them using their finger.

In Reed’s poem, the poet juxtaposes the stages of breaking down and naming parts of a military rifle with naming parts of springtime. In this stanza , the safety-catch of a gun and its release is juxtaposed with fragile blossoms. This juxtaposition allows the reader to consider any similarities and contrasts between releasing a weapon’s safety-catch and fragile blossoms. The differences are obvious, so Reed may appear to have created an incongruous juxtaposition. However, there is a logic to the implied comparison in that releasing the safety-catch on a gun allows bullets to fly from it, just as blossoms might be released and fly from a tree.

The juxtaposition of the parts of a weapon and parts of springtime creates a dramatic effect of tension between death and destruction and rebirth and renewal. By simply pairing these two entities side by side in the poem, Reed allows the reader to compare and contrast man-made technology meant to end life and nature’s capability of restoring and beginning life.

Example 2:  The Joy Luck Club  (Amy Tan)

I opened up the Schumann book to the dark little piece I had played at the recital. It was on the left-hand page, “Pleading Child.” It looked more difficult than I remembered. I played a few bars, surprised at how easily the notes came back to me. And for the first time, or so it seemed, I noticed the piece on the right-hand side. It was called “Perfectly Contented.” I tried to play this one as well. It had a lighter melody but with the same flowing rhythm and turned out to be quite easy. “Pleading Child” was shorter but slower; “Perfectly Contented” was longer but faster. And after I had played them both a few times, I realized they were two halves of the same song.

In this chapter of Tan’s novel , a daughter is trying to understand her mother’s actions towards her as a child while simultaneously coming to terms with her mother’s absence in death. The mother and daughter juxtaposition creates a foil for the narrative in many ways, particularly in that the daughter considers herself to be American and the mother considers herself Chinese. In addition, the juxtaposition of the daughter’s older, more experienced self and the memory of her childhood self encourages the reader to consider more fully how time can change someone’s perspective and understanding of people and memories.

In this passage, the daughter opens the piano book to find two musical pieces juxtaposed. As she plays each piece, the daughter explores the similarities and differences between them. This implicitly invites the reader to compare and contrast these pieces, although not musically. Instead, through the juxtaposition of the song titles, their musical descriptions, and the daughter’s reactions to playing them, the reader is able to compare and contrast the daughter’s relationship with her mother and the mother’s relationship with the daughter. This is significant in allowing the reader to explore meaning and understanding in the story , just as the daughter’s character attempts to do as well.

Example 3:  Animal Farm (George Orwell)

Twelve voices were shouting in anger, and they were all alike. No question, now , what had happened to the faces of the pigs. The creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again; but already it was impossible to say which was which.

In his allegorical tale of the Russian Revolution and the nation’s transformation from a czarist regime to a communist state, Orwell juxtaposes many elements and themes to showcase the significance and meaning of historical events and political theory. In this passage, the animals witness the juxtaposition of the pigs and men at the end of the story.

Rather than resulting in stark contrast, the juxtaposition of the pigs and men instead brings about an inability among the “outside” animals to distinguish between them. This has a dramatic effect in terms of the narrative since the pigs were the original leaders of the revolution on the farm and intended, at the beginning of the literary work, to differentiate themselves as much as possible from the men they believed to be their oppressors.

In addition to the ironic effect of this juxtaposition of pigs and men, the “creatures outside” are juxtaposed with the pigs and men inside. This additional layer of juxtaposition is effective to use the literary device because it invites the reader not to compare and contrast the men with the pigs, but instead to compare and contrast the men and pigs (oppressors) with the outside animals (the oppressed). By utilizing juxtaposition, Orwell effectively demonstrates the link between power and its consequences, for those who possess it and those who don’t.

Example 4: Othello by William Shakespeare

Let it be so. Goodnight to everyone—and, noble signor, If virtue no delighted beauty lack, Your son-in-law is far more fair than black.

Although there are several other examples, this not-so-well-known example shows that two ideas black and fair have been juxtaposed in these lines. They have just been put side by side to compare two different ideas which are contradictory but do not contradict. They just accentuate the contrast.

Example 5: The Jungle by Upton Sinclair

When Tamoszius and his companions stop for a rest, as perforce they must, now and then, the dancers halt where they are and wait patiently. They never seem to tire; and there is no place for them to sit down if they did.

These lines from The Jungle show that Sinclair has put two ideas tiring and sitting side by side but he does not mean to state them for the sake of contradiction. They are just showing a contrast.

Example 6: A Modest Proposal” by Jonathan Swift

There is likewise another great advantage in my scheme, that it will prevent those voluntary abortions, and that horrid practice of women murdering their bastard children, alas! too frequent among us, sacrificing the poor innocent babes, I doubt, more to avoid the expence than the shame, which would move tears and pity in the most savage and inhuman breast.

These lines from the essay of Jonathan Swift show how Swift has put two different ideas or things the orphan children and innocent babes side by side to compare and contrast two opposing ideas.

Synonyms of Juxtaposition

Some of the words that are closer in meanings to juxtaposition are comparison, contrast, proximity, colligation, closeness, contiguity, or nearness.

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Understanding Juxtaposition (Definition, Examples, How to Write)

Day and night. Good and evil. Belief and disbelief. War and peace. Happiness and sadness. All of these are nothing but everyday examples of contrast. Contradictions. Divergences.

When placed together, in a sentence , they make way for a powerful literary technique called juxtaposition – the art of comparing and contrasting two or more elements in a story to highlight their similarities and in turn their differences.

Writers use this technique to create a rhetorical effect , i.e. , to evoke an emotional response in the audience and to make an argument more compelling than it otherwise could be. It helps them bring out the uniqueness of a character in a more subtle, yet refined, way. It allows readers to understand the concepts, characters, and qualities like never before!      

In this article, we’ll discuss everything about juxtaposition – what it is, what is its definition and meaning, and how it is used in literature, art, poems, movies, and speeches to draw a comparison between two ideas.

What is Juxtaposition?

As mentioned above, Juxtaposition is a literary technique that places two or more distinctly dissimilar objects next to each other to compare, contrast, or create an interesting effect.

In simple words, juxtaposition means placing two contrasting elements next to each other so as to highlight their strengths, weaknesses, similarities, and differences.

Let’s understand it with this example. We all have read Cinderella – a story of an innocent, kind-hearted girl who’s left at the mercy of her wicked stepmother and equally cruel stepsisters until she finds her handsome prince.

In this story, we know Cinderella for her good values and virtues. But her ‘positive’ character becomes clearer to the readers due to her wicked stepsisters who are in sharp contrast to her. This is juxtaposition!

Synonyms or other words for juxtaposition include:

The antonyms (opposite words) of juxtaposition include:

When is Juxtaposition used?

Juxtaposition is used when we want to highlight similarities or contrast between two objects or elements. It helps in understanding a relationship between two elements more closely and helps writers:

• Chalk out a character in a more refined way by comparing their traits with a contrasting character.
• Draw a link between two unrelated objects, ideas, or images.
• Explore and exploit the nuances of a character.
• Draw a reader’s attention to seemingly common traits, which otherwise might just get missed.
• Show a character in a three-dimensional space, i.e., highlight both his good and the bad side.
• Add humor or absurdness to the content.
• Explain how one idea or element is better than another.

Examples of juxtaposition in everyday life

Contrast and comparison are all around us. We see it every day and in almost everything. It can be intentional or unintentional. For example:

• Old versus New: Have you seen a new construction coming up right next to a crumbling structure? In Rome, we have both the ancient Colosseum and graffiti-ridden buildings. While one is old, others are relatively new and both the structures stand in total contrast to each other. They are a classic example of juxtaposition.

Other examples could be an old man walking with a new stick, an old cup placed on a new tray, a young lady driving a vintage car, and so on and so forth. Just look around, you’ll find thousands of examples floating in front of your eyes.

• Shapes and Sizes: Our world is full of different shapes and sizes, and many times, they stand in total contrast to each other. For instance, a car. It has a rectangular body and round tire – both of which co-exist on the same vehicle but are in contrast to each other. Similarly, the bat and ball, too, are in sharp contrast to each other. While the bat is long and slender, the ball is curvy and stout.
• Single versus Happily/ unhappily married: Have you ever seen a happily married couple walking hand in hand? Just behind them, you might have noticed a bachelor passing by or a couple walking with sore looks on their face. Aren’t they in sharp contrast to each other?
• Dark versus Light : There are thousands of examples that show the juxtaposition of colors. Sunrise on a cloudy morning, day and night, light and darkness, and man and his shadow – all of them beautifully illustrate juxtaposition in life.
• Other Interesting arrangements: A rainbow showing myriad hues of colors, a budding flower against an aging leaf, trees standing tall against bushes and shrubs, and a bright moon shining in a pitch-dark night are all nature’s way of defining juxtaposition.

Examples from literature

Below are some famous examples of juxtaposition that exist in Literature:

• “Real stupidity beats artificial intelligence every time.” Hogfather by Terry Pratchett
• “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way.” Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy
• “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
• “The green spoon worm has one of the most extreme size differences known to exist between male and female, the male being 200,000 times smaller than his mate. Her lifespan is a couple of years . His is only a couple of months.” Seed Magazine
• “That is hot ice, and wondrous strange snow!” A Midsummer Night’s Dream by Shakespeare

In all the above examples the authors are trying to draw a sharp contrast between two different concepts: reality versus artificial intelligence, happy families versus sad families, best time versus worst time, and so on. These contrasting concepts demonstrate the highs and the lows of life and make you stop and think for a while . And this is the main goal of juxtaposition!

Understanding Juxtaposition as a Literary Device

Literacy devices are techniques used by the writer to create an intended perception of the subject or element in the literature.

Juxtaposition is used as one of the literary techniques. Here, two concepts, ideas, characters, or places are placed near or next to each other to help the reader compare and contrast them. But as a literacy device, juxtaposition is not only about comparing two different objects or elements. Juxtaposition should have some meaning and a sense of understanding, which makes the entire literary work significant for the reader.

Let’s understand Juxtaposition in literacy through these common and famous proverbs :

Let’s see some examples of juxtaposition from famous novels and stories:

How to Create a Juxtaposition

Juxtaposition offers us the easiest way to connect elements, create a story, and make it compelling and worth remembering. Here’s how you can create juxtaposition in your story, article, painting, or any other body of work:

• Identify the main character, element, or object in your story.
• Now think of alternatives that are in sharp contrast to it and can help you highlight your character in the best possible way.
• Think of their implications and how they can best highlight your story’s character/ object.
• Choose the one that best supports your idea.

You can use the following concepts to create juxtaposition between different elements:

You can draw some understanding from the following examples:

1. A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of Light, it was the season of Darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair”

The entire poem is a juxtaposition of contrasting characters and elements. The poem highlights how life is a mixture of highs and lows and how while some enjoy everything, others are left in despair.

2. Paradise Lost by John Milton

“Better to reign in Hell than to serve in Heaven.”

This is an excerpt from John Milton’s Famous poem Paradise Lost . In this poem, the poet compares God and Satan and describes how Satan is driven by arrogance when he proclaims the aforementioned lines. 

3. The Waste Land by T.S. Eliot

“April is the cruelest month, breeding

Lilacs out of the dead land, mixing

Memory and desire, stirring

Dull roots with spring rain.

Winter kept us warm, covering

Earth in forgetful snow, feeding

A little life with dried tubers.”

Here, the poet juxtaposes the month of April with Winter. He describes how April due to its pleasant weather revives life, while winters keep us cold and lifeless.

Other poems that are great examples of juxtaposition include:

• Joining the Colours by Katharine Tynan
• A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare
• Some Days by Billy Collins
• Good Night by Dylan Thomas

Artists often use the juxtaposition to accentuate concepts and imagination. Juxtaposition in art is found almost everywhere. However, some notable artists who have extensively used juxtaposition in their assemblage of work include:

TV shows are full of contrasting characters. Some examples include:

In movies too, makers use of juxtaposition to highlight their characters. For example:

Juxtaposition has also been vividly used in speeches by some of the famous orators and personalities of the world. Some examples of juxtaposition in speech include:

• “Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country.”  
• US President John F. Kennedy
• “We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live.”
• US President Abraham Lincoln, the Gettysburg Address
• “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”
• Neil Armstrong

Architecture

Some of our world monuments are also classic examples of juxtaposition. The examples include but are not limited to:

How to Pronounce Juxtaposition?

The word “juxtaposition” is pronounced as jux·​ta·​po·​si·​tion. It is formed by blending a Latin word, “juxta,” meaning “next,” with a French word “position.”

Common Questions

What is juxtaposition in photography.

Juxtaposition in photography involves placing two or more contrasting elements in a picture together so as to create an eye-catching, visually-appealing image. The contrast can be in relation to shape, size, color, or any other element that helps spark emotions and narrate a visual story or emphasize similarities or differences between the objects or people.

What is juxtaposition in art?

In art, the juxtaposition of different elements is used to depict contrast and elicit a response in the audience’s mind. Artists often place objects of different shapes, sizes, and colors beside each other to create a particular effect and highlight the differences and uniqueness of different objects. Writers, similarly, bring characters of different shades together to make the reader stop, think, and reconsider the meaning of the text, and life at large.    

What is juxtaposition in drawing?

Artists use juxtaposition to display different emotions. For example,

• a contrast between light and dark is used to add depth to a drawing
• different hues of colors are used to create a stunning effect
• Objects of different shapes, sizes, and textures are drawn next to each other to create visual juxtaposition.   

What is juxtaposition rhetorical?

Juxtaposition is also a rhetorical device. It places different objects or elements next to each other just for comparative purposes – to highlight the contrast between them. It helps to bring out their innate differences and reveal some surprising similarities too. This is called the rhetorical effect.

Writers use various divergent elements together to help readers compare, contrast, and understand the characters well. Some commonly used juxtapose elements to create rhetorical effect include:

Juxtaposition refers to a stark contrast between two people or things. The literary device is used to create contrast. Typically between two characters or linking elements.

Mother/father relationship is a great example of juxtaposition. In many ways, they are connected, although different.

• Juxtaposition
• Juxtaposition Definition and Examples
• 20 Illuminating Juxtaposition Examples if You’re Feeling Lost
• What is Juxtaposition? Definition and Examples of Juxtaposed Language
• What Is Juxtaposition in Art?
• When & How to Write a Juxtaposition
• Writing 101: What Is Juxtaposition? Learn About Juxtaposition in Writing With Examples

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What is a Juxtaposition? Examples, Definitions, and How to Create Them

A juxtap osition is when two ideas , characters , plot points , or other elements of a story are placed side – by – side for comparison ( or to create an interesting contrast ). It ‘s like the literary equivalent of putting two photos side – by – side and saying “ Hey , check out this cool comparison !”

Sometimes it ‘s funny , sometimes it ‘s ironic , and sometimes it ‘s just plain clever . Let’s explore more about juxtapositions, why they’re useful, and how you can create your own to spice up your writing.

Let’s jump in!

Juxtaposition in Writing

Juxtaposition isn’t just a fancy word that makes one sound like a literary genius at dinner parties. It’s actually an important writing technique and literary device that helps authors create more engaging stories. Imagine talking about a hamster playing basketball with an elephant in order to contrast a local kid playing against a professional NBA athlete. The importance lies in the extreme differences to truly make an effective juxtaposition. It’s all about placing contrasting elements together to make a point or create an effect.

Why Juxtaposition Matters

Why bother with juxtapositions in writing? Well, they’re the secret sauce that adds a certain je ne sais quoi to any story.

Juxtapositions can be used to:

• Highlight differences : By placing two contrasting elements side-by-side, the differences between them become more apparent. It’s like comparing a tiny ant to a giant blue whale or a cup of water to a glass of sand – the differences are obvious and striking, on purpose.
• Create tension : Juxtapositions can help build tension in a story by placing opposing forces or ideas close together. Imagine a peaceful village suddenly invaded by a raging army of zombies. The more opposite each force or element is in the story, the better the effect it can have.
• Evoke emotion : Juxtapositions can also evoke powerful emotions in readers by showing the stark contrast between good and evil, love and hate, or beauty and ugliness. Think of a beautiful rose growing in the middle of a garbage dump – it’s a poignant image, right?
• A turn of phrase: Think of some beautifully concise phrases from your favorite books or movies. A lot of them might’ve been using juxtapositions to elicit a starker visualization. Lines like “deafening silence” or “you can’t taste the sweet without the bitter” or “All’s fair in love and war.” Some of these can be classified as oxymorons, which are a type of juxtaposition.
• Add humor : Sometimes, juxtapositions can be downright hilarious. Especially when they involve an element of absurdity. Picture a ninja trying to sneak around in a room full of squeaky dog toys or the classic elephant inside a fine China shop.

Types of Juxtapositions

Juxtaposition can come in many forms and flavors, like a literary smorgasbord. Here are some of the most popular types:

• Character Juxtaposition : When two characters with contrasting personalities, appearances, or beliefs are placed side-by-side. Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson, anyone? This is a strong point in developing character arcs over longer courses of writing.
• Setting Juxtaposition : When two contrasting settings are placed close together in a story, like a bustling city and a tranquil countryside or a patch of garbage on an otherwise beautiful beach.
• Plot Juxtaposition : When two storylines with contrasting themes or events are placed side-by-side, creating an interesting contrast. Think of a romantic comedy with a subplot about saving the environment or a horror movie with an ongoing love triangle.
• Thematic Juxtaposition : When two opposing themes or ideas are explored in a story, such as the struggle between good and evil, or the tension between tradition and progress.

How to Craft Juxtapositions: A Recipe for Success

Ready to whip up some literary magic? Here’s a simple recipe for creating effective juxtapositions:

• Identify the elements : Decide which elements of the story will be juxtaposed. Will it be the characters, the different settings, plot points, or themes? It doesn’t have to be just one or the other, but know that each element can provide a different effect on your readers’ imagination.
• Find the contrast : Determine the contrasting aspects of each element. What makes them different or interesting when placed side-by-side? This is where you think of the opposite effects, do you want to show good vs evil, clean vs dirty, love vs hate? These types of things.
• Blend them together : Weave the contrasting elements into the story in a way that highlights their differences and creates the desired effect, whether it’s tension, humor, or emotion. Essentially, pick the element and apply the contrast, and make sure it’s consistent throughout the story.

Juxtaposition Examples: A Gallery of Greatness

Time to dive into some fantastic examples of juxtaposition in literature, film, and television:

• Character Juxtaposition : In the Harry Potter series, the contrast between the humble Harry and the arrogant Draco Malfoy creates tension and highlights the importance of staying true to oneself.
• Setting Juxtaposition : In The Great Gatsby , F. Scott Fitzgerald juxtaposes the opulent mansions of West Egg with the poverty-stricken Valley of Ashes, emphasizing the vast wealth gap during the Roaring Twenties .
• Plot Juxtaposition : In the film Slumdog Millionaire , the harsh reality of life in the slums is juxtaposed with the protagonist’s journey to win the popular game show “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?”. This contrast creates a powerful commentary on poverty, luck, and destiny.
• Thematic Juxtaposition : In George Orwell’s Animal Farm , the opposing themes of equality and tyranny are explored through the story of animals revolting against their human oppressors, only to fall victim to their own corrupt leaders.

Creating Juxtapositions in Your Own Writing

Inspired to try juxtaposition in your own writing? Here’s a handy checklist to get started:

• Choose the right elements : Pick elements in your story that will create a powerful contrast when juxtaposed. Remember, it’s all about highlighting differences!
• Consider the desired effect : What impact do you want the juxtaposition to have on the reader? Should it be funny, emotional, or thought-provoking? Choose elements that will help create this effect.
• Integrate smoothly : Seamlessly integrate the juxtaposed elements into your story. Make sure they don’t feel forced or out of place.
• Don’t overdo it : Use juxtaposition sparingly to ensure it remains effective. Too many juxtapositions can make a story feel disjointed or confusing.

Wrapping It Up: The Power of Juxtaposition

Juxtaposition is a powerful writing tool that adds depth, complexity, and engagement to any story. By placing contrasting elements side-by-side, authors can create memorable moments that provoke emotion, inspire thought, or simply make readers laugh. So go forth, and start juxtaposing like a literary pro!

And remember, as a wise person once said, “In writing, as in life, it’s all about the contrasts.” Or maybe that was a fortune cookie. Either way, happy juxtaposing!

If you’re thirsty for more writing knowledge, head over here to  learn all 74 literary devices .

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• Juxtaposition

Juxtaposition Definition

What is juxtaposition? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

Juxtaposition occurs when an author places two things side by side as a way of highlighting their differences. Ideas, images, characters, and actions are all things that can be juxtaposed with one another. For example, it's a common plot device in fairy tales such as Cinderella to juxtapose the good-natured main character with a cruel step-sibling. The differences between the characters, as well as their close relation to one another, serve to highlight the main character's good qualities.

Some additional key details about juxtaposition:

• The verb form of juxtaposition is juxtapose , as in "the author juxtaposed the protagonist's dirty, ragged clothes with the spotless interior of the wealthy villain's mansion."
• The word juxtaposition comes from the Latin juxta meaning "next" and the French poser meaning "to place." This combination suggests juxtaposition's meaning: "to place next to."

Juxtaposition Pronunciation

Here's how to pronounce juxtaposition: juck-stuh-puh- zish -uhn

Juxtaposition and Related Terms

Because juxtaposition is such a broad concept, covering the contrast created between all sorts of different things when placed in close proximity, there are a number of terms that overlap with it or fall under its broader umbrella. Three of the most common of these terms are foil , antithesis , and oxymoron .

Juxtaposition and Foils

A foil is one specific form of juxtaposition having to do with contrasts between characters. When a writer creates two characters that possess opposite characteristics, it's often with the intention of highlighting some specific about one or both of the characters by juxtaposing their qualities. Such characters are foils of one another. The tortoise and the hare, from the famous folk tale, are examples of foils.

"Juxtaposition" describes the writer's action of placing these two characters next to one another for the purposes of comparing them, while foil is a word that describes the characters themselves (the hare is a foil to the tortoise, and vice-versa).

Juxtaposition and Antithesis

Antithesis is also a specific type of juxtaposition. Antithesis is a narrower term than juxtaposition in two key ways:

• Antithesis involves opposites: The things that are contrasted in antithesis are always pretty strong and clear opposites. Juxtaposition can involve such oppositional things, but also can involve the contrast of more complicated things, like two characters or themes.
• Antithesis involves a specific grammatical structure: Antithesis is a figure of speech that involves a very specific parallel sentence structure. Juxtaposition is a literary device that simply refers to a contrast set up between two things in some way, but it does not necessarily have to involve a defined grammatical structure.

An example of antithesis is Neal Armstrong's first words when he reached on the surface of the moon:

"That's one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind."

This is a clear pairing of opposites, expressed in a parallel grammatical structure. In contrast, now imagine a description of Neal Armstrong's figure foregrounded against the night sky:

The tiny figure of Armstrong in his pristine white suit stood out against the expansive darkness of the universe beyond him.

This description involves juxtaposition rather than antithesis, for two reasons: it does not contain parallel grammatical structure, and the comparison goes beyond opposition. The white of the suit contrasts with the darkness of space in a clear contrast of opposites, but the sentence also contains a comparison between Armstrong's small size and the overwhelming magnitude of the universe, between the human and the non-human, even between the temporary and the eternal. These effects, which amount to a feeling of awe and loneliness, come from the choice to place Armstrong and the universe next to one another—it comes from their juxtaposition .

Juxtaposition and Oxymoron

An oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two contradictory terms or ideas are paired together in order to reveal a deeper truth. Put another way, an oxymoron uses the juxtaposition of its two words to imply something deeper than either word individually could convey.

For instance, it's an oxymoron when, in Romeo and Juliet , Juliet says that "parting is such sweet sorrow ." The juxtaposition of these two words, "sweet sorrow," captures the complexity of love and passion, that it is capable of inspiring both pain and joy at the same time.

Juxtaposition Examples

Juxtaposition in literature.

Juxtaposition is a basic tool of storytelling, as writers choose how to place their characters, settings, arguments, and images in relation to one another to achieve their aims. In this section you'll find examples of juxtaposition from fiction, poetry, non-fiction, and drama.

Juxtaposition in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein

In Frankenstein , Mary Shelley creates a few jarring juxtapositions that serve to accentuate the monstrosity as well as the humanity of the Creature that Victor Frankenstein brings to life. The Creature learns to speak in part by reading Milton's Paradise Lost , and so his language is ornate and elevated, full of thee's, thy's, and thou's. The juxtaposition of this elegant, formal speech with the Creature's ugly, deformed features and terrible strength creates an uncanny, terrifying effect that, at the same time, increases the reader's understanding of the Creature's tragedy, since we see his clear intelligence.

Over the course of the novel, Shelley also juxtaposes the actions of the Creature, who eventually responds to the world's scorn with a violent urge for revenge, with those of Victor Frankenstein, whose arrogant recklessness created the Creature in the first place and whose lack of mercy or empathy condemned the Creature to lonely isolation. This juxtaposition begs the question: who is the real monster?

Juxtaposition in T.S. Eliot's "The Waste Land"

One of T.S. Eliot's most well-known poems, "The Waste Land," is a patchwork of different allusions and striking imagery , as Eliot uses juxtaposition to knit together a dizzying range of sources and ideas. Eliot juxtaposes April, a springtime month, with winter, and uses irony to reverse the reader's expectation for this comparison (calling April cruel and winter warm). There is also a second juxtaposition in the image of blooming lilacs in the "dead land," two contrasting images that bring out one another's features.

April is the cruellest month , breeding Lilacs out of the dead land , mixing Memory and desire, stirring Dull roots with spring rain. Winter kept us warm , covering Earth in forgetful snow, feeding A little life with dried tubers.

Juxtaposition in Rachel Carson's Silent Spring

In Rachel Carson's Silent Spring , one of the foundational works of the modern environmental movement, juxtaposition plays an important role in Carson's framing of her argument. The first chapter of the book, "A Fable for Tomorrow" presents a beautiful small town "in the heart of America," at first stressing its natural abundance:

Along the roads, laurels, viburnum and alder, great ferns and wildflowers delighted the traveler's eye through much of the year

Soon, though, a blight descends, and spring, which normally brings with it new life, is instead filled with eerie silence:

The roadsides, once so attractive, were now lined with browned and withered vegetation as though swept by fire.

The juxtaposition of the natural, wholesome beauty of the present with the devastation of environmental collapse is meant as a warning for Carson's readers. The title itself, Silent Spring , is a condensed version of this juxtaposition, since it's meant to signify the vanishing of songbirds.

Juxtaposition in Shakespeare's Henry IV Part 1

In Shakespeare's history play Henry IV Part 1 , a monologue of Prince Henry's reveals that Henry himself is thinking in terms of juxtaposition. In the speech, he outlines how his current reputation as a reckless youth will make his eventual "reformation" into a responsible king look even better: he imagines his changed behavior as shining "like bright metal on a sullen ground."

... nothing pleaseth but rare accidents. So, when this loose behavior I throw off And pay the debt I never promised, By how much better than my word I am, By so much shall I falsify men's hopes; And like bright metal on a sullen ground , My reformation, glittering o'er my fault, Shall show more goodly and attract more eyes Than that which hath no foil to set it off.

Juxtaposition in Film

In film, juxtaposition can come not just from contrasts and comparisons created between characters and dialogue, but also from editing together different images, so that the cut from one image to another tells a story.

Juxtaposition in Stephen Spielberg's Jaws (1975)

In Stephen Spielberg's iconic thriller, Jaws , the director uses juxtaposition to heighten the film's suspense as the massive great white shark stalks its unsuspecting prey. In quick succession, Spielberg cuts from lighthearted beach scenes (children playing on the beach, surfers paddling out to sea, and lifeguards relaxing) to underwater shots with suspenseful music, hinting at the presence of the shark. The viewer is unsure who will be the shark's target, but this juxtaposition between the cheerful world above the water and the frightening creature underneath it creates a sense of fear and anticipation of what's to come.

Juxtaposition in Photography

When a photographer composes an image, selecting what elements to include in their pictures, he or she might consider how different elements in the image will relate to one another when they are juxtaposed. This relation is part of what allows a photographer to tell a story with just a single image.

Juxtaposition in Marc Riboud's "The Flower and the Bayonet" (1967)

In this famous photograph from the era of the Vietnam War, French photographer Marc Riboud captured an image whose power comes from a striking juxtaposition. A young protester, Jan Rose Kasmir, who was 17 at the time, holds a single flower up to the line of bayonet-bearing soldiers who are attempting to control the anti-war demonstration. The juxtaposition of this fragile symbol of peace and innocence with the heavily armored soldiers (who represented the war effort) became an important image in the Vietnam protest movement.

Juxtaposition in Song

Many songwriters also make use of juxtaposition as they present images in their songs and, as in the case below, the technique can also be used to suggest conflict.

Juxtaposition in Billy Joel's "Uptown Girl"

This catchy classic by Billy Joel deals with the timeless theme of romance across class lines. In this case, Joel is the "downtown man" who is pursuing an "uptown girl," and the juxtaposition of their two worlds (the "backstreets" and the "white bread world") helps encapsulate their different backgrounds.

Uptown girl She's been living in her uptown world I bet she's never had a backstreet guy I bet her momma never told her why I'm gonna try for an uptown girl She's been living in her white bread world As long as anyone with hot blood can And now she's looking for a downtown man That's what I am

Why Do Writers Use Juxtaposition?

Juxtaposition is an important technique for any writer, and can serve a variety of purposes:

• To draw a comparison between two ideas.
• To create contrast, highlighting the difference between two elements.
• To create an absurd or surprising effect (i.e., by inserting an element into a setting where it seems wildly out of place).
• To make one element stand out (i.e., by painting a white dove on a red background).
• To bring differing perspectives together in one story.
• To suggest a link between two seemingly unrelated things or images.

Other Helpful Juxtaposition Resources

• Merriam Webster definition : This dictionary definition is a to-the-point description with simple examples.
• Hollywood Lexicon : This entry provides more explanation of the role of juxtaposition in filmmaking.
• Uptown Girl video : The original video for Billy Joel's Uptown Girl.
• Lost juxtaposition fever : This page, created by fans of the TV series Lost , tracks the many instances of juxtaposition in the show's structure.

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What is Juxtaposition? Definition and Examples of Juxtaposed Language

Home » The Writer’s Dictionary » What is Juxtaposition? Definition and Examples of Juxtaposed Language

Juxtaposition definition: Juxtaposition is a rhetorical device that places two elements in close relationship for comparative purposes.

What is Juxtaposition? Juxtaposition as a Literary Term

What does juxtaposition mean? Juxtaposition is a rhetorical device that places two elements in close relationship for comparative purposes. Juxtaposition is a type of comparison. Typically, the two elements being juxtaposed have differences and the juxtaposition is meant to highlight contrasting effects.

The term “juxtapose” includes the word parts “juxta” (next to) and “pos” (put or place). The term literally means “to put next to.”

Juxtaposition is perhaps most evident through images. “Before and after” images provide an audience an opportunity to evaluate through juxtaposition.

Juxtaposition vs. Foil: What’s the Difference?

Meaning of foil: A foil is a literary character that is meant to emphasize the traits of another character through opposing traits.

A literary foil is one that develops throughout a text and may not be evident at first. A common literary foil is to present a “good” character and a “bad” character. The good character’s traits emphasize the bad character’s traits, and vice versa. The Harry Potter Series characters Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy are a modern example of this type of foil.

Both juxtaposition and foil compare. However, juxtaposition is not limited to characters like foil is. In literature, juxtaposition could compare settings, statements, or just about anything else.

Juxtaposition Examples in the News

• The juxtaposition of the EU’s recent statement of concern over the rule of law in Poland and the long-overdue response by Latin American and Caribbean governments to the decades-long political crisis festering in Venezuela is a striking case in point. – Houston Chronicle
• Tonia Ko’s “Covers and Uncovers” required the strings and winds to rattle and ring brightly hued desk bells and the percussionist to “play” a metal tube using a threaded metal rod – sights that appeared as curious as they first sounded. However, the juxtaposition of earthy noises with ringing bells and instrumental tones worked well to create an abstract landscape vista. – The Washington Post
• The thrill of victory. The agony of defeat. The end of every NBA season comes down to those two, powerful emotions–in a striking juxtaposition on the largest of stages. It may be cliché, but it’s undeniable. – Inc. Magazine

The Function of Juxtaposition

Juxtaposition can compare any elements in writing.

Writers should use juxtaposition thoughtfully. As with any other literary element, if juxtaposition is overused, it loses its effect.

Ideally, juxtaposition helps a writer achieve his argument. Even fiction writers have an argument they are trying to communicate to the audience. Juxtaposition may be one of the tools a writer uses to do this.

Examples of Juxtaposition in Literature

Throughout his journey, he encounters various obstacles that hinder his way. His human nature often causes him to stumble and lose focus.

The islands of Circe and Calypso serve as setting juxtapositions to Odysseus’ island of Ithaca. The islands of these goddesses offer temptation to Odysseus and his men. They are meant to take man away from the “real world” where he can relish in beauty and sin.

These islands are juxtaposed throughout the text with Odysseus’ life on Ithaca, which is demanding and realistic.

Homer juxtaposes these settings to exemplify good intentions and human nature. He wants to compare Odysseus’ life—the not-so-easy life of responsibility—to a fantastical life where Odysseus has no responsibilities whatsoever.

The juxtaposition of the settings furthers Homer’s argument with the text, which is man’s character inevitably brings about his success or failure.

Summary: What is a Juxtaposition?

Define juxtaposition: the definition of juxtaposition in literature the fact of two things being placed closed together to show contrasting effect .

To sum up, juxtaposition is:

• a side-by-side placement of two elements for comparative purposes
• a method author’s use to convey their argument
• used to show the differences between two elements

• Literary Terms
• Juxtaposition
• Definition & Examples
• When & How to Write a Juxtaposition

I. What is Juxtaposition?

Juxtaposition (pronounced juhk-st uh -p uh – zish – uh- n) is the placement of two or more things side by side, often in order to bring out their differences. Imagine a man walking a well-groomed dog on a pink leash on one hand and a rough Rottweiler on a spiked collar on the other hand. The juxtaposition could be shocking, humorous, or just plain strange. Regardless, this literary term calls attention to two distinctly different things by placing them right beside one another, or juxtaposing them.

For example:

All’s fair in love and war

In this familiar adage, love and war, two opposite concepts, are placed beside one another. The juxtaposition of love and war serves to show that despite how different the two are, both are characterized by a lack of rules or guidelines.

II. Examples of Juxtaposition

Juxtaposition can occur in literature between characters , settings , events, ideas, or actions in order to encourage the reader to compare and contrast the entities.

Finally, notice how this example describes a butler’s life:

A butler spends his days in a beautiful mansion dressed in a tuxedo, but returns home to a closet-sized apartment in a rundown part of town.

Example 1 juxtaposes two settings: a wealthy person’s mansion and a poor butler’s apartment. Such juxtaposition serves to highlight just how different the butler’s quality of living is from his employer’s.

Consider this examples of a juxtaposition in attitude:

A waitress is remarkably rude and impatient with a doting couple. She is extremely kind, though, to a quiet man who is eating alone with a book.

Here, the juxtaposition is of the waitress’s attitude towards certain customers. Her rudeness to a couple followed by kindness to a single man implies that she is jealous of the couple and empathetic to the single man, as she herself is either single or unhappy in a relationship. Because such different attitudes are in close proximity, the meaning behind them is magnified.

III. The Importance of Using Juxtaposition

Juxtaposition is an important literary term in that it highlights contrasts between two things but also invites comparisons . This device can be used to fully illustrate a character in a novel, complicate a poem’s subjects, or convince an audience to feel a certain way about the subjects.

For example, consider the waitress if her actions had not been juxtaposed. Simply shown being rude to a couple, she would be viewed as bitter and impatient. When her attitude is juxtaposed with her kindness towards a single man, though, her character is more well-rounded and understandable.

Juxtaposition can be used to consider universal ideas such as love and war. On the other hand, juxtaposition is often used in comedy as two largely different things placed in the same place can result in funny and strange situations.

IV. Examples of Juxtaposition in Literature

Juxtaposition is an important device in literature as it encourages the reader to make comparisons otherwise ignored or unapparent. It can serve to highlight certain characteristics of subjects, to make different subjects more alike, or to challenge the typical perspective on a subject.

For a short and simple example of juxtaposition, read Joseph Bruchac’s poem “Prints”:

Seeing photos of ancestors a century past is like looking at your own fingerprints— circles and lines you can’t recognize until someone else with a stranger’s eye looks close and says that’s you.

In this poem, Bruchac juxtaposes two points of view. First, he invites the reader to consider looking at oneself and how difficult it is to recognize oneself by certain details and characteristics. Then, he remarks on how much better a stranger is at recognizing these details in you. With this juxtaposition, Bruchac challenges the common notion that we know ourselves well with the argument that strangers may see us more truly or clearly than we see ourselves.

V. Examples of Juxtaposition in Pop Culture 

Juxtaposition is useful in pop culture as it complicates compositions, mixes up songs, and shapes characters’ development. As is true for literature, juxtaposition can be used for both serious and comedic means.

For an example of comedic juxtaposition, watch the trailer for Pixar’s animated film Up :

Carl Fredricksen is old, curt, and jaded. Russell is young, full of energy, and naïve. Russell wants to connect, whereas Fredricksen wants to be left alone. The juxtaposition of these two characters is funny, a cause of conflict in the movie, and ultimately, a reason for Fredricksen to lighten up and open his heart to the youngster.

For another example of juxtaposition, consider the French versus English narration in this Nike ad:

The French narrator speaks quickly and frequently, whereas the English narrator speaks rarely, simply, and with an unexcited voice. The juxtaposition of the two narrations serves to add a comedic touch to this already absurd ad.

For an example of juxtaposition in music, listen to Icelandic band Sigur Rós’s song “I Gaer”:

The most dramatic point of juxtaposition occurs at 55 seconds. The song begins with a light, mysterious mixture of xylophone-like instruments which are then abruptly interrupted by dramatic, powerful and roaring heavy-metal guitars and noise. The juxtaposition strikes listeners, interrupting the calm with a storm of sound.

VI. Related Terms: Juxtaposition vs. Foil

A foil is a character who has qualities that are opposite or contrasting to another character in a creative piece. Foils are used to highlight the uniquely different characteristics in one another. If foils sound like juxtaposition, it is because they are a specific type of juxtaposition. Just as squares may be considered rectangles but rectangles may not be considered squares, all foils are juxtapositions, but not all juxtapositions are foils. A juxtaposition may be between characters in the form of a foil, but it may also be between places, things, or ideas. Here are a few examples of foils versus juxtapositions:

God and Satan

Juxtaposition:

Heaven and hell

In this classic example, God and Satan symbolize good and bad, and exhibit purely opposite characters. Heaven and hell, symbolic of paradise versus suffering, are equally opposite but are settings rather than characters. For this reason, they would be considered a juxtaposition rather than foils.

Harry Potter and Voldemort

Hogwarts and the outside world

In this example from J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, Harry and Voldemort may be considered foils as they are opposites competing for good versus bad in the wizard world. Hogwarts, where Harry goes to school, is juxtaposed to the outside world as it is a place of open magic and strangeness versus the outside world which is void of magic and ordinary.   

As is shown in the above examples, foils are a type of juxtaposition. They apply specifically to characters who highlight differences in other characters.

VII. In Closing

Juxtaposition is a literary term which places different elements side by side in order to emphasize their differences, reveal surprising similarities, or explore a unique relationship between the two. It challenges us to reconsider and discover elements typically kept apart by placing them in contact with one another.

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juxtaposition

What is juxtaposition definition, usage, and literary examples, juxtaposition definition & pronunciation.

A  juxtaposition  (JUHK-stuh-puh-ZI-shuhn) is a side-by-side comparison of two things, such as  settings , characters, or ideas.

Characterization , physical appearance, morality, ideology, and personal history are just a few of the  narrative  elements that can be juxtaposed. These items are typically put in parallel to highlight differences, convey a message, or evoke a certain effect. Juxtapositions can be explicit, directly made by the narration or a character. They can also be subtle details that readers must observe to form their own conclusions.

The word  juxtaposition  stems from the Latin  juxta , meaning “near.” When combined with the English  position , the resulting compound word means something akin to “near place” or “near placement.”

Juxtaposition Synonyms & Antonyms

Juxtaposition synonyms include:

Juxtaposition antonyms include:

Juxtaposition Examples

Juxtaposition requires placing two things side by side. This close proximity accentuates any differences, and that informs the reader’s understanding.

• “He was kind, considerate, and empathetic—nothing at all like his traitorous brother.” This comparison of brothers serves two purposes. It contributes to characterization by establishing personality traits of each sibling. It also establishes them as foils, and through the description of the former, readers can infer that the latter is cruel, selfish, and callous.
• “The dark house, with its overgrown garden and boarded windows, was a blight on the rest of the neighborhood, dotted with picturesque houses boasting verdant lawns and clean windows that gleamed in the sun.” This  sentence  contrasts the first house’s state of disrepair against its well-maintained neighbors, suggesting that there’s something  other  about this particular home. Whether it’s a case of haves versus have-nots or something more sinister, the contrast arouses the reader’s suspicions.

People tend to seek understanding through comparison, which makes juxtaposition a useful reasoning tool that appears in everyday speech. It also forms the crux of several proverbs and  idioms  that use comparisons to make their point.

• “What’s good for the goose is good for the gander” contrasts the goose and the gander as individuals while asserting that what’s good for one is good for all.
• “Better late than never” elevates being late over never arriving or occurring to convey the idea that the former is preferable to the latter.
• “It’s not rocket science” pits the subject (“it”) against rocket science. Compared to the complex field of rocket science, the subject is not very complicated.

Types of Juxtaposition

Juxtaposition is a sort of umbrella literary technique, meaning it encompasses several, more specific kinds of contrasts. The most common are foils, antitheses, and oxymorons.

These are characters whose personalities, backgrounds, or ideas contrast with one another. Juxtaposing one foil character with another highlights their differences, which often lends greater depth or understanding to each character’s personality or  motivation . Several characters in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s  The Great Gatsby  serve as foils to each other, such as wealthy millionaire Tom Buchanan and working-class mechanic George Wilson.

This is the contrast between two opposites. The human tendency to define through contrast makes antithesis a powerful technique. It helps readers understand something by defining its opposite. Antithesis is exemplified by the first paragraph of Charles Dickens’s  A Tale of Two Cities , which lays the  setting ’s starkly conflicting ideals side by side to emphasize the sociopolitical tensions in Europe during the French Revolution.

This literary device is a contradiction. Where other comparatives use juxtaposition to find contrast between two things, an oxymoron juxtaposes two ideas that already seem to conflict or even contradict each other. Some examples include phrases like “deafening silence” and “alone together.”

The Functions of Juxtaposition in Writing

Juxtaposition in media can work much the same way as a pros and cons list—it can organize thoughts and aid decision-making processes.

For example, a writer may place a morally just character beside a morally corrupt character to underscore the former’s goodness against the latter’s depravity. Putting these characters in close proximity throws the good character’s traits into sharper relief. Such juxtapositions can convey  characterization , facilitate character development, and emphasize details that help readers distinguish between characters.

Writers also use juxtaposition for the following reasons:

• Examine traits, ideas, or actions that readers might otherwise miss
• Explore the relationship between two things, such as abstract concepts
• Inject humor into the  narrative  or otherwise influence its  tone  or atmosphere
• Assert that one idea or element is better than another through comparison

Consider the Force in the  Star Wars  franchise. This ubiquitous energy field is repeatedly delineated into light and dark sides, pitting them against the other. The dark side of the Force is corrosive, stoked by fear, anger, and hatred. In contrast, the light side is associated with peace, compassion, and selflessness. Much of the story’s  conflict  stems from the characters’ struggle to defy the seductive dark side and remain in the light. This thematic juxtaposition is an important catalyst in terms of  plot  and character development.

Juxtaposition in Other Media

Examples of juxtaposition appear in many forms of media. It lends itself well to visual media like photography, animation, and live action.

Juxtaposition photography is a particularly popular medium. A photograph of a baby with their grandparent may juxtapose youth and old age while drawing a connection between generations. Color contrasts can express visual symbolism. Light colors often signifying goodness and dark colors suggesting evil.

Juxtaposition is used to great effect in the Surrealism art style. Surrealists pair opposing images and ideas, not to create clear connections, but to spur the viewer to think more broadly and abstractly.

Dissonance—a clashing juxtaposition between disharmonious things—can affect a story’s tone or convey a message. Stanley Kubrick’s films make great use of mood dissonance, particularly his adaptation of  A Clockwork Orange , in which a scene of violence unfolds to the tune of “Singing in the Rain.” The discomfiting juxtaposition between brutal action and joyous music serves to stoke the viewer’s unease.

Lyrical dissonance is another application of juxtaposition. Listen to a song like REM’s “It’s the End of the World as We Know It (and I Feel Fine).” The track’s peppy, upbeat tempo sharply contrasts with the  lyrics , which describe apathy amid rising doom.

Juxtapositions between sound and image can also be used to humorous effect, such as in  Who Framed Roger Rabbit . When the Baby Herman character is introduced, he speaks in the gruff, gravelly voice of a 50-year-old man, which belies his puerile appearance.

Juxtaposition also has value beyond fiction, particularly as a tool of reasoning or persuasion. Nonfiction authors or speech writers may juxtapose the politics of two different leaders or governments to make a point or broaden a reader’s perspective, for example.

Examples of Juxtaposition in Literature

1. Dylan Thomas, “Do not go gentle into that good night”

The first  stanza  establishes the thematic juxtapositions that run throughout the  poem :

Do not go gentle into that good night,

Old age should burn and rave at close of day;

Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

The poem associates light with life and night with death. The juxtaposition of these images reveals further associations between life and vitality as well as death and passivity.

2. Suzanne Collins,  The Hunger Games

The Hunger Games  is a dystopian novel set in Panem, where political power is consolidated in the wealthy Capitol, which oversees 12 districts that exist in varying degrees of poverty. Upon traveling to the Capitol for the first time, protagonist Katniss Everdeen befriends Cinna. As the two share a meal together, Cinna presses a button to bring forth an extravagant spread of food:

Chicken and chunks of orange cooked in a cream sauce laid on a bed of pearly white grain, tiny green peas and onions, rolls shaped like flowers, and for dessert, a pudding the color of honey. I try to imagine assembling this meal myself back home. Chickens are too expensive, but I could make do with a wild turkey. I’d need to shoot a second turkey to trade for an orange. Goat’s milk would have to substitute for cream. We can grow peas in the garden. I’d have to get wild onions in the woods.

Katniss concludes that not even “days of hunting and gathering” back home would result in a meal that could match this display. This contrast between scarcity and abundance and effort and ease emphasizes the inequity between the rich Capitol and Katniss’s poverty-stricken home.

3. Studs Terkel,  The Good War

Terkel’s historical book about World War II, comprised of interviews from people who lived through or experienced the war firsthand, incorporates juxtaposition into its very structure. The second World War is often remembered as a “good war.” These interviews challenge this belief by presenting personal accounts that explore the war’s impact on culture, society, politics, and government.

While the book as a whole exists to contrast individual realities against a popular idea, Terkel also creates a series of smaller contrasts by placing certain accounts near each other. For example, Robert Lekachman reflects:

It was the last time that most Americans thought they were innocent and good, without qualifications.

That same section also transcribes an interview with Dellie Hahne, who remarks:

The good war? That infuriates me. Yeah, the idea of World War Two being called a good war is a horrible thing. I think of all the atrocities. I think of a madman who had all this power. I think of the destruction of the Jews, the misery, the horrendous suffering in the concentration camps.

By organizing the interviews in this way, without offering any commentary himself, Terkel creates a series of deliberate, nuanced juxtapositions that encourage readers to form their own conclusions.

4. William Shakespeare,  Hamlet

Hamlet ’s plot kicks off after Claudius secretly murders his brother then marries his widowed sister-in-law, Gertrude. The circumstances of this marriage are unsettling, and Claudius admits as much in Act 2:

Therefore our sometime sister, now our queen,

Th’ imperial jointress to this warlike state,

Have we—as ’twere with a defeated joy,

With an auspicious and a dropping eye,

With mirth in funeral and with dirge in marriage,

In equal scale weighing delight and dole—

Taken to wife.

Claudius juxtaposes “mirth in funeral” with “dirge in marriage” to assure the court that he shares their mixed feelings: he’s as saddened by his brother’s death as he is happy about his marriage. By acknowledging the court’s concerns, Claudius is trying paint his actions as reasonable. Ultimately, these contradictions alert readers to his insincerity.

Further Resources on Juxtaposition

In  this video , Oregon State University Poet-in-Residence David Biespiel teaches students what juxtaposition is and how to identify it in poetry and prose.

This article  details three ways aspiring writers can use juxtaposition to enhance their writing.

Related Terms & Literary Devices

Exploring Juxtaposition: Creative Examples and How to Use Them in Blogging [In 2024]​

• October 26, 2023
• Blogging , Learn

In the world of writing, there is a powerful technique called juxtaposition that can elevate your content. Juxtaposition is the art of placing two contrasting elements side by side to emphasize their differences. It can add depth and complexity to your writing, making it more engaging for your readers. 

Whether you’re writing a blog post, an article, or a novel, understanding and using juxtaposition can take your writing to the next level. Let’s dive into the concept and explore some creative examples and how to use them in blogging.

Juxtaposition in writing can elevate your blog content, making it more engaging and memorable for readers. By placing contrasting elements side by side, you create a powerful effect that highlights differences, adds depth, and evokes emotions. Here are six key takeaways on using juxtaposition in blog writing:

• Contrast to create meaning: Juxtaposition uses contrast to convey a deeper message or highlight the differences between two concepts or objects.
• Explore different forms: Juxtaposition can take various forms, such as antithesis, foil, or oxymoron, and can be used to contrast characters, develop plotlines, or inject humor and irony.
• Enhance arguments: In non-fiction writing, juxtaposition can be used to create compelling arguments and highlight contrasting ideas.
• Identify main points: When using juxtaposition in blog writing, identify your main points or thesis and consider alternative or opposing ideas to add the necessary contrast.
• Create memorable moments: Juxtaposition can help create memorable moments in your writing by placing contrasting elements together, setting up for a powerful payoff later on.
• Experiment and have fun: Embrace the creative possibilities of juxtaposition in your blog writing and have fun with it. Use this technique to captivate your readers and convey your message with impact.

Understanding the concept of juxtaposition in writing

To fully grasp the concept of juxtaposition, it’s important to note that it involves placing two distinct and dissimilar things together. By juxtaposing these contrasting elements, you create a stark contrast and draw attention to the differences between them.

Here are some key points to understand about juxtaposition in writing:

• Enhancing the relationship between elements:  Juxtaposition can be used to explore the relationship between two elements in your writing. By placing them side by side, you allow the reader to see how these elements interact and influence each other.
• Adding complexity:  Juxtaposition can reveal different facets of a single thing. By presenting two contrasting sides or traits of a character or an idea, you can create a more nuanced and complex portrayal.
• Highlighting contrasts:  Juxtaposition is an effective way to highlight the differences and similarities between two elements. This can create a profound impact on the reader and evoke emotional responses.
• Making a point:  Juxtaposition can be used to convey a message or lesson. By contrasting two things, you can subtly suggest that one is better than the other or highlight the consequences of certain actions.

Now that we have a basic understanding of juxtaposition, let’s explore some creative examples and how to use them in blogging to make your content more compelling and thought-provoking. 

Examples of Juxtaposition in Literature

Juxtaposition is a powerful literary technique that enriches storytelling by placing contrasting elements side by side. By examining famous literary works, we can appreciate the creative use of juxtaposition and understand its impact on the narrative.

Exploring famous literary works that employ juxtaposition

• Juxtaposes “the best of times” and “the worst of times” to highlight the stark contrast between the wealthy and impoverished during the French Revolution.
• Juxtaposes the prejudice and injustice faced by Tom Robinson, a black man, with the innocence and moral fortitude of Scout and Jem Finch, emphasizing the complexity of the human experience.
• Juxtaposes the destructive nature of censorship and conformity with the transformative power of literature, highlighting the importance of free thought and individuality.

Analyzing the effects of juxtaposition on storytelling

• Juxtaposing conflicting ideas or characters heightens dramatic tension and adds depth to the narrative, engaging readers and keeping them invested in the story.
• Juxtaposition enables authors to highlight the differences between two elements, whether it be characters, settings, or themes, allowing readers to explore the complexities and nuances within the text.
• By placing opposing concepts side by side, juxtaposition can underscore the overarching themes and messages of a literary work, enhancing the readers’ understanding and interpretation.

Incorporating juxtaposition in blog writing can make your content more compelling and thought-provoking. By utilizing contrasting elements, you can captivate readers and convey complex ideas with greater impact. 

Juxtaposition in Visual Arts

As an artist, exploring juxtaposition in your work can lead to visually striking and thought-provoking pieces. Whether you’re a painter, photographer, or work in other visual mediums, understanding how to effectively use juxtaposition can elevate your creative expression.

Examining the use of juxtaposition in paintings, photography, and other visual mediums

In the world of visual arts, juxtaposition refers to the act of placing two or more contrasting elements side by side to create a visual contrast. This technique allows artists to highlight the differences between these elements and create a sense of tension or harmony.

For example, in a painting, juxtaposing vibrant colors with muted tones can evoke a sense of drama or emphasize certain elements of the composition. In photography, juxtaposing different textures or scales can create visually captivating images that draw viewers in.

How visual juxtaposition creates contrast and impact

Visual juxtaposition serves as a powerful tool for artists to create contrast and impact in their work. By placing two contrasting elements together, artists can amplify the visual impact of each element and convey a deeper message or emotion.

Some creative examples of visual juxtaposition include:

• Juxtaposing animate and inanimate objects: This can create a sense of surprise or even anthropomorphism, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.
• Contrasting scale: Playing with the size of objects in relation to each other can create a dynamic composition and draw attention to specific details.
• Juxtaposing black and white elements: The contrast between black and white can create a striking visual effect and emphasize different aspects of a composition.
• Contrasting emotions: Juxtaposing elements that evoke contrasting emotions, such as joy and sadness or peace and chaos, can create a powerful emotional impact.
• Contrasting architecture: Placing modern and classic architectural structures together can highlight the passage of time and evoke a sense of nostalgia or progress.

To learn more about the use of juxtaposition in visual arts, you can explore the  Wikipedia  page on juxtaposition.

Exploring juxtaposition in your own work can open up new avenues for creative expression and make your art more engaging and memorable to viewers. 

Juxtaposition in Blogging

Exploring Juxtaposition: Creative Examples and How to Use Them in Blogging

Juxtaposition is a powerful technique that can add depth and impact to your blog writing. By combining contrasting elements or ideas side by side, you can create a striking effect that captures readers’ attention and makes your content more engaging. 

Whether you’re writing about fashion, travel, or any other topic, incorporating juxtaposition can elevate your blog posts to the next level.

Utilizing juxtaposition techniques to enhance blog content

There are various ways you can incorporate juxtaposition in your blog writing to make it more compelling:

• Pair opposing ideas: By juxtaposing two contrasting concepts or viewpoints, you can create a thought-provoking effect that encourages readers to consider different perspectives. For example, in a fashion blog, you can compare and contrast minimalist style with maximalist fashion choices.
• Combine different visuals: Incorporating contrasting images or design elements in your blog posts can create visual interest and draw the reader’s eye. For instance, in a travel blog, you can pair vibrant, bustling cityscapes with serene, natural landscapes to highlight the diverse experiences of a destination.
• Contrast emotions or experiences: Juxtaposing contrasting emotions or experiences can deepen the impact of your blog writing. You can create tension by contrasting joyful moments with moments of sadness or highlight the excitement of trying something new against the comfort of familiarity.

Tips and strategies for incorporating juxtaposition in blog writing

Here are some tips and strategies to effectively incorporate juxtaposition in your blog writing:

• Plan your content: Identify the key elements or ideas you want to juxtapose in your blog post. This will help you create a clear structure and ensure a seamless flow of ideas.
• Use vivid language: Employ descriptive and evocative language to bring out the contrasting elements in your writing. Use bold text to emphasize the opposing concepts and create visual impact.
• Provide examples and evidence: Support your juxtaposition with relevant examples and evidence. This will make your arguments more persuasive and help readers understand the significance of the contrasts you’re presenting.
• Create a balanced narrative: While juxtaposition is about contrasting elements, it’s important to maintain a balance in your blog writing. Ensure that the contrasts serve a purpose and contribute to the overall coherence and message of your content.

By leveraging the power of juxtaposition, you can create unique and impactful blog posts that resonate with your readers. So, embrace this creative technique and explore its possibilities in your blogging journey.

Juxtaposition and Emotional Impact

In the world of blogging, the creative use of juxtaposition can have a powerful impact on your readers. By pairing contrasting elements or concepts, you can create a stronger emotional reaction and make your content more memorable. 

Juxtaposition allows you to emphasize certain ideas or themes, highlight differences, and evoke specific emotions in your readers.

How juxtaposition evokes emotional responses in readers

When you strategically place contrasting elements side by side, you can create a heightened sense of tension, surprise, or irony. For example, juxtaposing a dark scene with a humorous line or a tragic event with a hopeful message can amplify the emotional impact of both elements. 

Readers are drawn to these unexpected combinations, which can evoke a range of emotions such as joy, sadness, shock, or empathy.

Case studies on the emotional effects of juxtaposition in blogging

To better understand the impact of juxtaposition in blogging, let’s explore some real-life case studies that highlight its emotional effects:

• “The Power of Contrasts: Love and Loss”: This blog post juxtaposes heartwarming stories of love and heart-wrenching tales of loss. By juxtaposing these contrasting emotions, the writer creates a truly powerful and emotional experience for the reader, leaving a lasting impact.
• “The Unresolved: Hope and Despair”: In this blog post, the writer explores the theme of hope and despair by juxtaposing stories of individuals who have overcome great adversity and stories of those who have succumbed to despair. The stark contrast between these experiences evokes a profound emotional response in the reader.
• “The Light and the Dark: Beauty in Imperfection”: Through a series of visually stunning photographs, this blog post juxtaposes images of beauty and imperfection. The contrasting elements create a thought-provoking experience for the reader, challenging them to redefine their perceptions of beauty.

Juxtaposition in blogging can be a powerful tool for creating emotional connections with your readers. By strategically pairing contrasting elements, you can evoke specific emotions, leave a lasting impact, and make your content more engaging and memorable. 

So, don’t be afraid to explore the creative possibilities of juxtaposition in your blogging journey! 

Juxtaposition and Humor

In the world of blogging, incorporating humor can make your content more engaging and enjoyable for readers. One technique that can add a touch of humor to your blog posts is juxtaposition. Juxtaposition is the art of placing two contrasting ideas, concepts, or objects side by side in order to create a humorous effect.

Exploring the role of juxtaposition in creating humor in blog posts

Juxtaposition allows you to highlight the differences between two things and create unexpected connections. By using contrasting elements, you can create humorous scenarios that grab your readers’ attention and elicit a laugh. 

Whether you’re writing a personal blog or a professional one, incorporating juxtaposition can add a unique and entertaining twist to your content.

Here are some ways you can use juxtaposition to add humor to your blog posts:

• Unexpected Contrasts: Pair two ideas or objects that are vastly different from each other. The stark contrast will catch your readers off guard and make them laugh.
• Oxymorons: Use words or phrases that seem contradictory, like “bittersweet” or “icy hot,” to create humorous wordplay.
• Foil Characters: Introduce characters with opposite qualities or personalities who play off each other. The contrast between their behaviors or attitudes can create comedic situations.
• Memory Tags: Use juxtaposition to create memorable moments in your blog posts. By placing two contrasting elements together, you can make a certain word or object stand out, setting it up for a humorous payoff later on.
• Timing and Delivery: Just like in stand-up comedy, timing is key. Deliver your humorous juxtaposition with confidence and give your readers time to process and appreciate the humor.

Examples of humorous juxtaposition in popular blogs

Many successful bloggers have mastered the art of juxtaposition to add humor to their writing. Here are a few examples:

• The Blog of Unnecessary Quotation Marks: This blog hilariously highlights the misuse of quotation marks in everyday signage and documents. By juxtaposing the intended meaning with the actual use of quotation marks, the blog creates humorous misunderstandings.
• The Oatmeal: This popular webcomic and blog frequently uses juxtaposition to create humorous and relatable situations. Whether it’s comparing the behavior of cats and dogs or illustrating the struggles of everyday life, the Oatmeal’s use of contrasting elements adds a comedic edge to their content.
• Hyperbole and a Half: This blog combines humorous anecdotes and illustrations to explore everyday situations and the absurdity of life. By juxtaposing relatable experiences with exaggerated storytelling and visuals, the author creates laugh-out-loud moments.

So, if you’re looking to inject some humor into your blog posts, consider exploring the power of juxtaposition. By carefully crafting contrasting elements and delivering them with impeccable timing, you can create content that entertains and engages your readers.

Juxtaposition and Symbolism

When it comes to creating impactful and engaging blog content, incorporating juxtaposition can be a powerful tool. Juxtaposition, the placement of two contrasting elements side by side, can add depth and complexity to your writing, making it more memorable for your readers. It is often used in combination with symbolism to convey a deeper meaning or to create visual and emotional contrasts in your blog posts.

Analyzing the symbolic significance of juxtaposition in blog writing

Juxtaposition and symbolism go hand in hand when it comes to creating thought-provoking blog content. By placing two contrasting ideas or images side by side, you can create a visual and conceptual tension that captures your readers’ attention. 

For example, using the contrast between light and darkness, wealth and poverty, or nature and technology can help convey a specific message or theme in your blog posts.

Using juxtaposition and symbolism effectively can help you convey complex ideas, challenge conventional thinking, and evoke emotional responses from your readers. It adds layers of meaning and depth to your writing, making it more engaging and memorable.

How juxtaposition enhances the overall message and theme

Juxtaposition allows you to create vivid comparisons and contrasts in your blog writing, which can enhance the overall message and theme you want to convey. By juxtaposing different ideas, concepts, or images, you can highlight their differences or similarities, provoke thought, and invite your readers to make connections.

To effectively use juxtaposition in your blog writing, consider the following techniques:

• Contrast characters or situations: By juxtaposing two contrasting characters or situations, you can highlight their differences or similarities, and explore deeper themes or conflicts.
• Create visual contrasts: Incorporate visuals or descriptions that juxtapose contrasting elements, such as colors, textures, or settings, to create visual impact and evoke specific emotions.
• Use contrasting language or imagery: Play with contrasting words, phrases, or symbolic imagery to create a dynamic and layered narrative that captures your readers’ attention.

By incorporating juxtaposition and symbolism in your blog writing, you can create content that is more engaging, thought-provoking, and memorable. Make sure to use these techniques strategically to enhance your overall message and theme, and to create a lasting impact on your readers.

To learn more about the concept of juxtaposition and how it can be used in various forms of art, literature, and photography, you can visit the  Wikipedia page on juxtaposition . 

Using Juxtaposition to Engage Readers

In the world of blogging, creating engaging content is key to attracting and retaining readers. One powerful technique for capturing attention is the use of juxtaposition.

 Juxtaposition involves placing two contrasting elements side by side, creating a striking and thought-provoking effect. By employing this creative strategy, bloggers can make their content more compelling and memorable.

To better understand the concept of juxtaposition and its potential applications in blogging, let’s explore some case studies of successful blog posts that have utilized this technique.

Case studies on successful blog posts that employ juxtaposition:

• “10 Must-Try Healthy Dessert Recipes for Guilt-Free Indulgence”

This blog post cleverly juxtaposes the concepts of “dessert” and “healthy” to create an intriguing and seemingly contradictory combination. By showcasing delicious dessert recipes that prioritize nutritious ingredients and mindful preparation, the author captivates readers who are seeking guilt-free indulgence. 

The juxtaposition of these two seemingly opposing ideas provides a fresh perspective on traditional notions of dessert, ultimately piquing readers’ curiosity and driving engagement.

• “The Fine Line Between Fear and Excitement: Harnessing the Power of Adrenaline”

In this thought-provoking blog post, the author juxtaposes the emotions of fear and excitement to explore their interconnected nature. By demonstrating how these seemingly opposite emotions share a common thread of adrenaline, the article challenges readers’ preconceived notions and encourages them to embrace exhilarating experiences. 

The juxtaposition of fear and excitement creates an impactful narrative that evokes a range of emotions, immersing readers in the subject matter and fostering a deeper connection.

• “The Art of Balancing Work and Play: Lessons from Successful Entrepreneurs”

This blog post employs the juxtaposition of “work” and “play” to provide valuable insights into achieving a harmonious work-life balance. By showcasing successful entrepreneurs who have mastered the art of balancing their professional and personal lives, the author offers practical tips and inspiration for readers to follow suit. 

The juxtaposition serves to highlight the inherent tension between work and play, encouraging readers to reevaluate their priorities and strive for a more fulfilling and sustainable lifestyle.

Juxtaposition is a powerful tool that can elevate blog content, capturing readers’ attention and fostering deeper engagement. By skillfully juxtaposing contrasting elements and ideas, bloggers can create compelling narratives that challenge conventional thinking and evoke a strong emotional response. Whether it’s contrasting concepts, opposing emotions, or conflicting perspectives, incorporating juxtaposition into blog posts is a powerful way to make your content stand out and leave a lasting impression.

Remember to always consider your target audience and the purpose of your blog when using juxtaposition. Striking the right balance and ensuring the contrast serves a purpose will help you create impactful and memorable content that keeps readers coming back for more. 

Exploring juxtaposition in blog writing can elevate your content and engage your readers on a deeper level. By contrasting two ideas or images side by side, you create contrast, emphasize similarities, and evoke emotions. 

Juxtaposition can be used to create conflict, highlight differences, or emphasize certain aspects of your writing. It adds depth and complexity to your blog posts, making them more memorable and impactful.

Key takeaways on using juxtaposition in blog writing:

• Juxtaposition is a literary device that uses contrast to create meaning.
• It can be used to highlight the differences or similarities between two concepts or objects.
• Juxtaposition can be used in various forms, such as antithesis, foil, or oxymoron.
• It can be used to contrast characters, develop plotlines, or inject humor and irony into your writing.
• Juxtaposition can also be used in non-fiction writing to create compelling arguments or highlight contrasting ideas.
• When using juxtaposition in blog writing, identify your main points or thesis, consider alternative or opposing ideas, and add the contrast that supports your desired point.

By mastering the art of juxtaposition, you can captivate your readers, make your writing more memorable, and effectively convey your message. So, go ahead and experiment with this powerful literary device in your blog posts to create impactful and engaging content.

Now that you have a better understanding of juxtaposition and how to use it in blog writing, you can start implementing this creative technique to enhance your content.

Javier is a graduate of the University of Dublin. He has been in the digital marketing space for over decade and has worked with E-commerce & digital space. He is currently in charge of blog editor at writertag.com and is passionate about creating software review that create value for user.

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How to Write an Essay Introduction (with Examples)   

The introduction of an essay plays a critical role in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. It sets the stage for the rest of the essay, establishes the tone and style, and motivates the reader to continue reading. 

Table of Contents

What is an essay introduction , what to include in an essay introduction, how to create an essay structure , step-by-step process for writing an essay introduction , how to write an introduction paragraph , how to write a hook for your essay , how to include background information , how to write a thesis statement .

• Argumentative Essay Introduction Example: 
• Expository Essay Introduction Example 

Literary Analysis Essay Introduction Example

Check and revise – checklist for essay introduction , key takeaways , frequently asked questions .

An introduction is the opening section of an essay, paper, or other written work. It introduces the topic and provides background information, context, and an overview of what the reader can expect from the rest of the work. 1 The key is to be concise and to the point, providing enough information to engage the reader without delving into excessive detail. 

The essay introduction is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire piece and provides the reader with a roadmap of what to expect. Here are key elements to include in your essay introduction: 

• Hook : Start with an attention-grabbing statement or question to engage the reader. This could be a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or a compelling anecdote. 
• Background information : Provide context and background information to help the reader understand the topic. This can include historical information, definitions of key terms, or an overview of the current state of affairs related to your topic. 
• Thesis statement : Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic. Your thesis should be concise and specific, providing a clear direction for your essay. 

Before we get into how to write an essay introduction, we need to know how it is structured. The structure of an essay is crucial for organizing your thoughts and presenting them clearly and logically. It is divided as follows: 2  

• Introduction:  The introduction should grab the reader’s attention with a hook, provide context, and include a thesis statement that presents the main argument or purpose of the essay.  
• Body:  The body should consist of focused paragraphs that support your thesis statement using evidence and analysis. Each paragraph should concentrate on a single central idea or argument and provide evidence, examples, or analysis to back it up.  
• Conclusion:  The conclusion should summarize the main points and restate the thesis differently. End with a final statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Avoid new information or arguments. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an essay introduction: 

• Start with a Hook : Begin your introduction paragraph with an attention-grabbing statement, question, quote, or anecdote related to your topic. The hook should pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading. 
• Provide Background Information : This helps the reader understand the relevance and importance of the topic. 
• State Your Thesis Statement : The last sentence is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be clear, concise, and directly address the topic of your essay. 
• Preview the Main Points : This gives the reader an idea of what to expect and how you will support your thesis. 
• Keep it Concise and Clear : Avoid going into too much detail or including information not directly relevant to your topic. 
• Revise : Revise your introduction after you’ve written the rest of your essay to ensure it aligns with your final argument. 

Here’s an example of an essay introduction paragraph about the importance of education: 

Education is often viewed as a fundamental human right and a key social and economic development driver. As Nelson Mandela once famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” It is the key to unlocking a wide range of opportunities and benefits for individuals, societies, and nations. In today’s constantly evolving world, education has become even more critical. It has expanded beyond traditional classroom learning to include digital and remote learning, making education more accessible and convenient. This essay will delve into the importance of education in empowering individuals to achieve their dreams, improving societies by promoting social justice and equality, and driving economic growth by developing a skilled workforce and promoting innovation. 

This introduction paragraph example includes a hook (the quote by Nelson Mandela), provides some background information on education, and states the thesis statement (the importance of education). 

This is one of the key steps in how to write an essay introduction. Crafting a compelling hook is vital because it sets the tone for your entire essay and determines whether your readers will stay interested. A good hook draws the reader in and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.  

• Avoid Dry Fact : Instead of simply stating a bland fact, try to make it engaging and relevant to your topic. For example, if you’re writing about the benefits of exercise, you could start with a startling statistic like, “Did you know that regular exercise can increase your lifespan by up to seven years?” 
• Avoid Using a Dictionary Definition : While definitions can be informative, they’re not always the most captivating way to start an essay. Instead, try to use a quote, anecdote, or provocative question to pique the reader’s interest. For instance, if you’re writing about freedom, you could begin with a quote from a famous freedom fighter or philosopher. 
• Do Not Just State a Fact That the Reader Already Knows : This ties back to the first point—your hook should surprise or intrigue the reader. For Here’s an introduction paragraph example, if you’re writing about climate change, you could start with a thought-provoking statement like, “Despite overwhelming evidence, many people still refuse to believe in the reality of climate change.” 

Including background information in the introduction section of your essay is important to provide context and establish the relevance of your topic. When writing the background information, you can follow these steps: 

• Start with a General Statement:  Begin with a general statement about the topic and gradually narrow it down to your specific focus. For example, when discussing the impact of social media, you can begin by making a broad statement about social media and its widespread use in today’s society, as follows: “Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of users worldwide.” 
• Define Key Terms : Define any key terms or concepts that may be unfamiliar to your readers but are essential for understanding your argument. 
• Provide Relevant Statistics:  Use statistics or facts to highlight the significance of the issue you’re discussing. For instance, “According to a report by Statista, the number of social media users is expected to reach 4.41 billion by 2025.” 
• Discuss the Evolution:  Mention previous research or studies that have been conducted on the topic, especially those that are relevant to your argument. Mention key milestones or developments that have shaped its current impact. You can also outline some of the major effects of social media. For example, you can briefly describe how social media has evolved, including positives such as increased connectivity and issues like cyberbullying and privacy concerns. 
• Transition to Your Thesis:  Use the background information to lead into your thesis statement, which should clearly state the main argument or purpose of your essay. For example, “Given its pervasive influence, it is crucial to examine the impact of social media on mental health.” 

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of an essay, research paper, or other type of academic writing. It appears near the end of the introduction. Here’s how to write a thesis statement: 

• Identify the topic:  Start by identifying the topic of your essay. For example, if your essay is about the importance of exercise for overall health, your topic is “exercise.” 
• State your position:  Next, state your position or claim about the topic. This is the main argument or point you want to make. For example, if you believe that regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good health, your position could be: “Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health.” 
• Support your position:  Provide a brief overview of the reasons or evidence that support your position. These will be the main points of your essay. For example, if you’re writing an essay about the importance of exercise, you could mention the physical health benefits, mental health benefits, and the role of exercise in disease prevention. 
• Make it specific:  Ensure your thesis statement clearly states what you will discuss in your essay. For example, instead of saying, “Exercise is good for you,” you could say, “Regular exercise, including cardiovascular and strength training, can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.” 

Examples of essay introduction 

Here are examples of essay introductions for different types of essays: 

Argumentative Essay Introduction Example:  

Topic: Should the voting age be lowered to 16? 

“The question of whether the voting age should be lowered to 16 has sparked nationwide debate. While some argue that 16-year-olds lack the requisite maturity and knowledge to make informed decisions, others argue that doing so would imbue young people with agency and give them a voice in shaping their future.” 

Expository Essay Introduction Example  

Topic: The benefits of regular exercise 

“In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of regular exercise cannot be overstated. From improving physical health to boosting mental well-being, the benefits of exercise are numerous and far-reaching. This essay will examine the various advantages of regular exercise and provide tips on incorporating it into your daily routine.” 

Text: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee 

“Harper Lee’s novel, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ is a timeless classic that explores themes of racism, injustice, and morality in the American South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, the reader is taken on a journey that challenges societal norms and forces characters to confront their prejudices. This essay will analyze the novel’s use of symbolism, character development, and narrative structure to uncover its deeper meaning and relevance to contemporary society.” 

• Engaging and Relevant First Sentence : The opening sentence captures the reader’s attention and relates directly to the topic. 
• Background Information : Enough background information is introduced to provide context for the thesis statement. 
• Definition of Important Terms : Key terms or concepts that might be unfamiliar to the audience or are central to the argument are defined. 
• Clear Thesis Statement : The thesis statement presents the main point or argument of the essay. 
• Relevance to Main Body : Everything in the introduction directly relates to and sets up the discussion in the main body of the essay. 

Writing a strong introduction is crucial for setting the tone and context of your essay. Here are the key takeaways for how to write essay introduction: 3  

• Hook the Reader : Start with an engaging hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be a compelling question, a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or an anecdote. 
• Provide Background : Give a brief overview of the topic, setting the context and stage for the discussion. 
• Thesis Statement : State your thesis, which is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be concise, clear, and specific. 
• Preview the Structure : Outline the main points or arguments to help the reader understand the organization of your essay. 
• Keep it Concise : Avoid including unnecessary details or information not directly related to your thesis. 
• Revise and Edit : Revise your introduction to ensure clarity, coherence, and relevance. Check for grammar and spelling errors. 
• Seek Feedback : Get feedback from peers or instructors to improve your introduction further. 

The purpose of an essay introduction is to give an overview of the topic, context, and main ideas of the essay. It is meant to engage the reader, establish the tone for the rest of the essay, and introduce the thesis statement or central argument.  

An essay introduction typically ranges from 5-10% of the total word count. For example, in a 1,000-word essay, the introduction would be roughly 50-100 words. However, the length can vary depending on the complexity of the topic and the overall length of the essay.

An essay introduction is critical in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. To ensure its effectiveness, consider incorporating these key elements: a compelling hook, background information, a clear thesis statement, an outline of the essay’s scope, a smooth transition to the body, and optional signposting sentences.  

The process of writing an essay introduction is not necessarily straightforward, but there are several strategies that can be employed to achieve this end. When experiencing difficulty initiating the process, consider the following techniques: begin with an anecdote, a quotation, an image, a question, or a startling fact to pique the reader’s interest. It may also be helpful to consider the five W’s of journalism: who, what, when, where, why, and how.   For instance, an anecdotal opening could be structured as follows: “As I ascended the stage, momentarily blinded by the intense lights, I could sense the weight of a hundred eyes upon me, anticipating my next move. The topic of discussion was climate change, a subject I was passionate about, and it was my first public speaking event. Little did I know , that pivotal moment would not only alter my perspective but also chart my life’s course.” 

Crafting a compelling thesis statement for your introduction paragraph is crucial to grab your reader’s attention. To achieve this, avoid using overused phrases such as “In this paper, I will write about” or “I will focus on” as they lack originality. Instead, strive to engage your reader by substantiating your stance or proposition with a “so what” clause. While writing your thesis statement, aim to be precise, succinct, and clear in conveying your main argument.  

To create an effective essay introduction, ensure it is clear, engaging, relevant, and contains a concise thesis statement. It should transition smoothly into the essay and be long enough to cover necessary points but not become overwhelming. Seek feedback from peers or instructors to assess its effectiveness. 

References  

• Cui, L. (2022). Unit 6 Essay Introduction.  Building Academic Writing Skills . 
• West, H., Malcolm, G., Keywood, S., & Hill, J. (2019). Writing a successful essay.  Journal of Geography in Higher Education ,  43 (4), 609-617. 
• Beavers, M. E., Thoune, D. L., & McBeth, M. (2023). Bibliographic Essay: Reading, Researching, Teaching, and Writing with Hooks: A Queer Literacy Sponsorship. College English, 85(3), 230-242. 

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Why Schools should Start Later for the Sake of Students’ Well-being

This essay is about the benefits of starting school later for students, emphasizing improvements in health, academic performance, and safety. It argues that adolescents’ natural sleep cycles require more rest, and early school start times lead to chronic sleep deprivation, negatively impacting cognitive function and mood. Research shows that later start times result in better grades and test scores due to increased alertness and engagement. Additionally, well-rested teens are less likely to be involved in car accidents, enhancing their safety. The essay also addresses potential challenges, such as disruptions to family schedules and extracurricular activities, and suggests solutions for a smooth transition to later start times.

How it works

The argument over when schools should start has heated up in recent years, with a growing number of scholars, parents, and educators supporting later start times. There are many strong arguments in favor of this reform, especially those that have to do with teenage health and academic achievement. We may gain a better understanding of why starting school later could significantly improve students’ lives by delving into these arguments and addressing the issues raised by a change in timetable.

Teenagers’ sleep habits are one of the best justifications for starting school later.

Teenagers and adults naturally have distinct sleep cycles from adolescents. They require more sleep and typically go to bed later. Early start hours for schools, however, conflict with these biological cycles, causing many teenagers to suffer from chronic sleep deprivation. This sleep deprivation can have a negative impact on their mood, memory, and cognitive skills. Based on studies, pupils are more likely to receive the appropriate amount of sleep when schools start later. This can improve their mental health overall, increase their ability to concentrate, and decrease absenteeism.

Beyond the health advantages, later starts are associated with higher academic achievement. Research indicates that students who get enough sleep exhibit higher levels of alertness and engagement during class. The American Academy of Pediatrics, for instance, discovered that pupils in high school who enrolled later in the year achieved better test scores and grades than students who enrolled earlier. This is explained by increased information retention capacity, less drowsiness during the day, and improved attention. Students who get enough sleep are less prone to burn out and are more likely to engage in active learning in the classroom.

The advantages of starting school later extend beyond health and academics. There’s also a safety factor to consider. Sleep-deprived teenagers are at a higher risk of engaging in risky behaviors and being involved in accidents, especially while driving. In locations where school start times were moved back, there was a drop in car accidents involving teenage drivers, according to a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This drop is largely because well-rested drivers are more alert and less prone to mistakes on the road. Therefore, shifting school start times could significantly impact student safety both in and out of school.

However, implementing later start times isn’t without its challenges. One major concern is the potential disruption to family schedules and after-school activities. Parents who depend on early school start times for childcare or work commitments might find a later start inconvenient. Additionally, extracurricular activities, sports practices, and part-time jobs typically occur after school, and a later start could push these activities further into the evening, leaving less time for homework and relaxation.

Despite these challenges, many schools that have moved to later start times have found ways to manage them. Adjusting bus schedules, coordinating with local businesses, and rearranging after-school activities can help accommodate the new start times. It’s crucial to engage the community and plan thoroughly to address these logistical issues and ensure a smooth transition. By involving parents, teachers, and students in the decision-making process, schools can develop strategies that meet everyone’s needs.

In summary, the argument for later school start times is backed by extensive research highlighting the benefits for students’ health, academic performance, and safety. While there are logistical challenges to consider, the potential positive outcomes make a strong case for reevaluating school schedules. By prioritizing the well-being and success of students, communities can create a more supportive learning environment and promote the overall development of young people.

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Watch our Memorial Day tribute to the military who sacrificed all to serve their country

Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer. It's a time to gather with friends and family for a grill out, a picnic, or maybe a trip to the beach to soak up the sun. But while it may well feel like a day of celebration, what sometimes gets forgotten is that it was conceived as a day of commemoration for the brave military members who died serving their country.  

A University of Phoenix survey found that less than half of Americans polled knew the exact purpose of Memorial Day, while around a third were unsure of the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day.

To clarify, Veterans Day, which takes place in November, is a tribute to all those who served honorably in the military in wartime or peacetime, whether living or dead.

The confusion is compounded by Armed Forces Day, a military celebration held in May for those currently serving. However, while the reasons differ, the sentiment of each day is the same: all three are important opportunities to show gratitude.

So, when you chow down on that hot dog, barrel down that slip 'n slide, or whatever you do for fun this Memorial Day, spare a moment to acknowledge the people in uniform whose sacrifice made a difference.

On this Memorial Day, watch the video for a surprise reunion of battle buddies bonded by the loss of their leade r

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Guest Essay

Sports Gambling Is a Ticking Time Bomb

By Leigh Steinberg

Mr. Steinberg is a sports agent who has represented athletes such as Troy Aikman, Manny Ramirez and Patrick Mahomes.

Some of the biggest scandals in sports history have revolved around players and gambling. Pete Rose is barred for life from baseball, in an agreement stemming from admissions of gambling . The Black Sox scandal , about a thrown World Series, is perhaps the most notorious sports debacle of all time.

Yet in a rush to embrace the potential profits provided by new forms of legalized sports gambling, the professional sports leagues have put players, and the people close to them, under untenable pressure. I have represented professional athletes for 50 years and I have never seen a situation that’s more perilous to them and the integrity of sports.

These aren’t just hypothetical concerns: Jontay Porter, a center for the Toronto Raptors, was recently barred for life from the N.B.A. after a league investigation found that he’d shared confidential information with a bettor, resulting in large wagers on his performance. As the new baseball season was starting, federal prosecutors said the interpreter for the star pitcher Shohei Ohtani had stolen millions from Mr. Ohtani to pay off gambling debts to an illegal sports bookie. Major League Baseball is investigating Mr. Ohtani’s former teammate David Fletcher over allegations that he placed bets with the same bookie.

Pro sports depends on authenticity and credibility. Fans must believe that the games are fair and that each athlete is making the maximum effort to win. Any suggestion that the contests might be fixed or tainted will destroy the industry.

The appearance of integrity has always been central to the success of sports. When I started as an agent a half-century ago, the major leagues all considered it so crucial to maintain distance between the worlds of gambling and athletics that they agreed that Las Vegas — then the only place where sports gambling was legal — should not have professional franchises.

Everything changed when, on May 14, 2018, in the case of Murphy v. N.C.A.A., the Supreme Court struck down a decades-old federal law that effectively banned sports betting outside Nevada. Within weeks, New Jersey had established legitimate sports betting at its casinos and racetracks. Thirty-seven states quickly followed suit.

Now casinos and betting companies are advertising in stadiums and arenas, many sports venues permit gambling outlets either inside or next door and two owners of N.F.L. teams, Robert Kraft and Jerry Jones, bought a small piece of the gambling site DraftKings. Las Vegas is now home to an N.F.L. team, the Raiders — and was the host of the Super Bowl this year.

Leagues and franchises are so embedded with gambling companies, and so enamored of the revenue these ties produce, that it’s unthinkable to reverse course. But there are crucial steps to be taken.

Leagues must install stricter guidelines and stronger oversight to protect players. They must work to closely monitor betting abnormalities (as in the case of Mr. Porter) then act quickly when such abnormalities occur. And they should negotiate with companies like FanDuel and DraftKings to discourage the lucrative but dangerous prop bets on the performance of an individual player — bets that are an obvious target for manipulation.

Let me be clear: I am not against all sports betting. Millions of people do it for enjoyment and potential profit and, let’s face it, humans started gambling long before organized sports existed.

But sports gambling has spread so quickly that pro leagues have had little time to reason through the consequences, especially for players. At a distance, the motives of someone like Mr. Porter are puzzling; this is a player who ruined his career despite having made millions of dollars legitimately while playing in the N.B.A. But pro athletics and the lure of gambling have always been intertwined.

Players have already spoken out about the verbal abuse they endure from fans angry about bets gone wrong, at times hurled at them even as a game is in progress. The Porter case points toward a much darker form of pressure: the temptation to use inside information to make wagers on a player’s performance.

I understand this kind of pressure firsthand. As an agent for professional athletes, I spent one Saturday night before a critical game sitting in a hotel room with Steve Young, then the quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers. I knew something that few people at that moment did: A defensive player had knocked Steve over during practice and he would not play in the game the next day.

Were I a betting man, I could have used that information to place potentially lucrative wagers on the game. I didn’t, because when you work with, or around, professional athletes, you are obligated to uphold the integrity of your players. But today, placing such a wager would be as easy as pulling out one’s smartphone. Or telling an acquaintance to pull out his.

There’s traditionally been an impregnable wall between professional sports and the world of gambling, but that wall is not just crumbling, it’s evaporating. Leagues must start by acknowledging that athletes are human. They have failings. They make missteps. The N.B.A., M.L.B. and other leagues have facilitated a situation that makes it all too easy for players to falter. If more of those players do, they will bring down the edifice of professional sports.

Leigh Steinberg is a sports agent who’s represented athletes such as Troy Aikman, Manny Ramirez and Patrick Mahomes.

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