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Vis-a-vis for Dummies

noun

pronunciation: ,vizə'vi

What does Vis-a-vis really mean?

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Vis-a-vis is a fancy-sounding word that may seem intimidating or confusing at first, but let's break it down into simpler terms. Imagine you have a friend sitting right across from you, face-to-face, and you are both talking about something. Well, that's pretty much what "vis-a-vis" means! It is a French term that literally translates to "face-to-face" or "in regard to" in English.

When we use the word "vis-a-vis," we are referring to the direct relationship or comparison between two things, often highlighting their similarities or differences. It's like when you and your friend are having a conversation, and you both have different opinions about a particular topic. You would say, "Vis-a-vis your point of view, I think differently because..." This shows that you are acknowledging what your friend said but also bringing your own perspective into the conversation.

Another way to think about it is like two people standing in front of a mirror, where their reflections are facing each other. In this scenario, the two people are like the two things being compared, and the mirror represents the action of "vis-a-vis" by reflecting their similarities or differences.

To put it simply, "vis-a-vis" is just a way of saying "in relation to" or "compared to." It helps us emphasize the connection between two ideas, people, or objects. So, now that we've broken it down together, do you think you understand what "vis-a-vis" means?

Revised and Fact checked by Jane Smith on 2023-10-29 23:12:55

Vis-a-vis In a sentece

Learn how to use Vis-a-vis inside a sentece

  • A dog is vis-a-vis another dog when they are facing each other.
  • In a race, two cars can be vis-a-vis if they are side by side.
  • You can use a mirror to see your reflection vis-a-vis your own face.
  • When you stand in front of a tall building, you are vis-a-vis the building.
  • In a conversation, two people are vis-a-vis if they are sitting across from each other at a table.

Vis-a-vis Synonyms

Words that can be interchanged for the original word in the same context.

Vis-a-vis Hypernyms

Words that are more generic than the original word.

Vis-a-vis Hyponyms

Words that are more specific than the original word.