Final answer:
Contrasts are comparisons that make differences between two elements clear, helping in the analysis and evaluation of subjects, and are used to create inferences.
Step-by-step explanation:
Contrasts in sentences or phrases are comparisons that make differences clear. They are not just facts or circumstances; rather, they are tools used by authors to highlight how two elements differ from one another, thereby aiding readers in analyzing and evaluating the subjects concerned. When used effectively, contrasts can lead to insightful inferences that enhance the reader's understanding of the text.
For example, the sentence 'Unlike the bustling city, the countryside was serene and unpolluted' uses contrast to emphasize the differences between city and countryside. This comparative technique is a powerful element in compare-and-contrast essays, allowing writers to explore complex themes and relationships between subjects through identifying similarities and differences.