Meaning & Definition of word "Comparison"

Comparison

/kəmˈpɛr.ɪ.sən/

noun:

  • 1. the act of evaluating two or more things in relation to one another.
    • Example: The comparison of the two products revealed significant differences in quality.
  • 2. a statement or estimate of the similarity or dissimilarity between two things.
    • Example: In her essay, she made a comparison between modern art and classical art.
  • 3. the degree to which two or more things are similar or different.
    • Example: He drew a comparison between his childhood experiences and those of his peers.

Etymology

From Latin 'comparatio', from 'comparare' meaning to compare.

Common Phrases and Expressions

apples to oranges:

A phrase used to describe a comparison between two things that are fundamentally different.

comparison is the thief of joy:

This phrase suggests that comparing oneself to others can diminish one's happiness.

make a comparison:

To evaluate the similarities or differences between two or more items.

Related Words

compare:

To examine the similarities and/or differences.

comparable:

Able to be compared; similar enough to allow for comparison.

comparative:

Relating to the comparison of two or more things.

Slang Meanings of comparison

Meaning: side-by-side

Example Sentence: We did a side-by-side to see which car had better fuel efficiency.

Meaning: head-to-head

Example Sentence: The head-to-head comparison of the two brands revealed clear advantages for one.