background
13 synonyms and 5 antonyms for background, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — The part of a scene or image that lies behind the main subject.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use background
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From back + ground.
Full origin of background →Frequently asked questions
What does “background” mean?
The word “background” means the part of a scene or image that lies behind the main subject. In plain terms, the setting behind the main subject in a picture, or a person's history and experience.
How do you pronounce “background”?
“Background” is pronounced BAK-rownd (/ˈbæk(ɡ)ɹaʊnd/ in IPA).
How do you use “background” in a sentence?
Here is “background” used in a sentence: “You can see the cathedral in the background of the photo.”
What is the opposite of “background”?
The opposite of “background” — its antonyms — are conspicuous, foreground, forestanding, primary and prominent.
What part of speech is “background”?
Depending on how it is used, “background” can be a noun, an adjective and a verb.
Is “background” a common word?
“Background” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “background” have?
“Background” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the part of a scene or image that lies behind the main subject.
What is the difference between background and foreground?
They are opposites within a scene. The foreground is the part nearest the viewer, where the main subject usually sits. The background is what lies furthest away, behind that subject. In photography and design, keeping the two distinct, with a sharp subject against a softer background, helps the main subject stand out.
What are the other meanings of "background"?
Beyond the visual sense, "background" can mean a person's history and circumstances, such as their education, family, or work experience. It can also mean the information and context surrounding an event, as in background reading, or something happening out of focus, as in a process that runs in the background on a computer.
How do you make a subject stand out from the background?
Photographers often blur the background, an effect called bokeh, so the eye settles on the sharp subject. Strong contrast in colour or brightness helps too, as does good lighting and separation between subject and backdrop. In design, a plain or muted background keeps attention on the foreground content.