Comparison

Definition

Comparison is a noun that refers to the act of evaluating similarities and differences between two or more entities. It can also indicate the assessment of relative quality, size, or importance.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəmˈpærɪsən/
• Respelling: kuhm-PAR-i-suhn

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəmˈpærɪsən/
• Respelling: kuhm-PAR-i-suhn

Etymology

The word "comparison" originates from the Latin "comparatio," which stems from "comparare," meaning "to pair" or "to match." It entered Middle English in the 14th century, denoting the act of evaluating similarities and differences between items.

Derivatives

• Compare (verb)
• Comparable (adjective)
• Comparative (adjective)
• Comparably (adverb)
• Comparator (noun)

Synonyms

• Contrast
• Evaluation
• Assessment

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "comparison" is often used in academic, professional, and everyday contexts to examine relationships between items. For example, "A comparison of the two products shows distinct differences," or "The author makes frequent comparisons between historical events."

Related Terms

• Contrast: A way of identifying differences between two or more things.
• Similarity: A point of likeness or resemblance between two entities.
• Analysis: The examination of the components or characteristics of something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The act of evaluating similarities and differences: Refers to the process of examining two or more items to determine their relative qualities.
  • Example: "The report includes a comparison of international healthcare systems."
• An analogy or metaphor: Used in literature or speech to illustrate similarities between two different things.
  • Example: "In her speech, she made a comparison between teamwork and a well-oiled machine."