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Comparing and Contrasting Using Expressions of Comparisons

This document discusses comparing and contrasting using expressions of comparisons. It explains that comparison shows likenesses between two equal objects or characteristics, while contrast shows differences. Comparison and contrast are generally used to clarify meaning and convince readers of an idea. When using this technique, it is important to know details about both subjects being compared, and to have a clear point or thesis beyond just listing similarities and differences. There are two main methods for organizing this information - the block method discusses one subject then the other, while the point-by-point method alternates between similarities and differences for each point. Comparison and contrast writing can increase understanding by showing how concepts are similar or different.

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Fashmina Mohamed
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240 views

Comparing and Contrasting Using Expressions of Comparisons

This document discusses comparing and contrasting using expressions of comparisons. It explains that comparison shows likenesses between two equal objects or characteristics, while contrast shows differences. Comparison and contrast are generally used to clarify meaning and convince readers of an idea. When using this technique, it is important to know details about both subjects being compared, and to have a clear point or thesis beyond just listing similarities and differences. There are two main methods for organizing this information - the block method discusses one subject then the other, while the point-by-point method alternates between similarities and differences for each point. Comparison and contrast writing can increase understanding by showing how concepts are similar or different.

Uploaded by

Fashmina Mohamed
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Comparing and Contrasting using expressions of comparisons

 Comparison means showing ‘likenesses’. Comparison is done only between two equal objects and
similar characteristics.
 Contrast means ‘showing differences’. We generally show likenesses and differences between two
persons, ideas, actions or things for the purpose of clarifying meaning for making a point.
 We generally use the technique of comparison and contrast in order to convince the reader of an idea.
 We have – that is X is better than Y – more intelligent, very gregarious, systematic etc.
 For several reasons the comparison contrast theme requires strong control of thesis and organization.
 Initially you have more basic material to work with two subject areas. Next you have to know
everything about both X and Y. Finally your theme must have a point to make beyond the obvious one
of simply comparing and contrasting.
 Once you have a frame work of points of comparison select from your lists, the characteristics and
details about the subject. List them.
 There are two methods of organizing the material when you use the rhetorical strategy, comparison and
contrast.
 The Block method, we discuss one paragraph of comparison and one on contrast giving about equal
time to each.
 In the part to part or point by point method, one in comparison and one in contrast show similarities
and difference.
 In choosing the pattern, choose the one which you would feel free to express and also have the
audience in mind and discuss the same.
Example:
 There are very significant differences between fairy tales and dreams. In dreams, more often than not
the wish fulfilment is disguised, while in fairy tales much of it is openly expressed. To considerable
degree dreams are the result of inner pressures which have found no relief, of problems which beset a
person to which he knows no solution and to which the dream finds none. The fairy tales does the
opposite; it projects the relief for all pressures and not only offer ways to solve problems but promises
that a happy solution to be found.
 The above paragraph discusses similarities and differences between fairy tales and dreams. Notice how
points are organized. Spot out where the topic sentence appears. Specific details are given to support
the statements. Finally, it is made very clear how they differ at the end. The dream does not find any
solution for the problems while the fairy tale does the opposite; it projects the relief all pressures and
not only offers ways to solve the problem but promises that a happy solution will be found.
 In real life also we use comparison and contrast thinking at crucial hour of decision like the
elective we choose in school based on the future career, which university we should go,
which car to buy, choice in marriage etc. Sometimes even in career, when we plan for a
change comparison and contrast thinking is very useful.
 Comparison and contrast writing increases the understanding of concept by showing similarities
or differences between it and another related concept.
Some tips:
Similarity Terms Contrast Terms
Just as …. So In contrast
In the same way Unlike
Similarly On the other hand
Also However
Likewise Whereas

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