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Black and White Dictionary Page

Black and White

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˌblæk ənd waɪt/

Definitions

  1. Describing something that is in the colors of black and white, often used for contrast.
  2. Used metaphorically to indicate something that is clear, simple, or obvious, without any ambiguity.
  3. In photography, refers to images or pictures created in black and white tones, without color.

Usage Examples

  • The newspaper was printed in black and white, with simple text and few images.
  • The concept of right and wrong is often presented in black and white, though life is more complex.
  • She wore a classic black and white dress to the event.

Etymology

The phrase "black and white" derives from the stark contrast between the colors black and white. It is often used in various forms to describe situations where things are clear-cut, either literally (as in color) or figuratively (as in moral clarity).

Synonyms

  • Monochrome
  • Black-and-white (as a compound adjective)
  • Clear-cut

Antonyms

  • Colorful
  • Complex
  • Multicolored

Translations

Language Translation Pronunciation
SpanishBlanco y negro/ˈblan.ko i ˈneɣɾo/
FrenchNoir et blanc/nwaʁ e blɑ̃/
GermanSchwarz und weiß/ʃvaʁts ʊnt vaɪs/
Hindiकाला और सफेद/ˈkaː.la ɔːɾ səˈfeːd/
Marathiकाळा आणि पांढरं/ˈkaː.ɭa ˈaː.ɳi ˈpaːɳɖʱəɾɳ/
Tamilகருப்பு மற்றும் வெள்ளை/kaɾupːu matɾum veɻɻai/
Teluguనలుగు మరియు తెలుపు/naːl.luɡu maɾiyu t̪eːlupu/

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In British English, pronounced /ˌblæk ənd waɪt/ is commonly used, whereas American English may emphasize a slightly more drawn-out "black and white" due to regional accent differences.

Historical Usage

The use of "black and white" as a descriptive term for color contrast has existed for centuries, particularly in reference to print media and early photography. The phrase later expanded metaphorically to describe situations or ideas that are simple and straightforward.

Cultural Nuances

In modern times, the term "black and white" is frequently used to represent the simplicity of clear distinctions between opposites, such as good and bad or right and wrong. However, in many cultural contexts, this simplicity is often challenged, as real-world issues are rarely so clear-cut.

More Information

The phrase "black and white" is widely used beyond just the description of visual contrast. It is commonly applied to abstract concepts such as ethics, decisions, or political ideologies where there is little room for ambiguity. In addition, black and white photography and art are seen as timeless and classic, emphasizing contrast and form rather than color.

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