contrastar

to contrast

verb kohn-trahs-TAHR Less Common

Origin: From Latin contrastare, from contra ('against') + stare ('to stand').

Usage Note

Contrastar is used both intransitively (los colores contrastan mucho) and transitively (contrastar una información — to verify/check information). In journalism and research, contrastar datos means to cross-check facts — a sense that goes beyond the English 'to contrast' and is closer to 'to verify'. The noun is contraste.

Examples

"Sus ideas contrastan con las del resto del grupo."

Natural Translation

His ideas contrast with those of the rest of the group.

Free starter pack

Building your Spanish vocabulary?

Get the 100 most common Spanish words as a free PDF — one email, no spam.

Related Words

Explore Spanish by topic

SpanishNow

Spain vs Latin American Spanish: Key Differences

Spain and Latin American Spanish are fully mutually intelligible. Compare vosotros vs ustedes, coche vs carro, the 'th' sound, and learn which one to study.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

Ser vs. Estar: When to Use Each in Spanish

Ser vs estar made simple: how you feel and where you are use estar, everything else uses ser. Master the rule, the exceptions, and the traps that flip meaning.

June 3, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

How to Memorize Spanish Vocabulary Fast (That Sticks)

Memorize Spanish vocabulary fast with a 15-minute daily loop: spaced repetition, frequency-first words, and example-sentence cards that actually stick.

June 9, 2026 6 min read

SpanishNow

Spanish Reflexive Verbs: Me, Te, Se Made Clear

Spanish reflexive verbs use me, te, se for actions you do to yourself. Master the daily-routine pattern, pronoun placement, and shifts like dormir vs dormirse.

June 9, 2026 6 min read