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grayscale

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /ˈɡreɪˌskeɪl/

KK: /ˈɡreɪˌskeɪl/

adjective
Definition

Relating to images or displays that use only shades of gray, without any color.


Example

The artist created a stunning grayscale image that captured the essence of the landscape.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you seen that new art exhibit downtown?
Sloth B
Yes! I loved how they used grayscale to create such strong contrasts.
Sloth A
Right? It really makes the emotions pop without any color.
Sloth B
Exactly! I think grayscale art has a unique charm.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
monochrome
achromatic
neutral
Antonyms
colorful
vivid
bright
noun
Definition

A range of shades of gray used in images, where colors are represented only in shades of gray instead of in color.


Example

The artist created a stunning piece using only grayscale to emphasize the contrast between light and shadow.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried using a grayscale chart for your photography?
Sloth B
No, I haven't. What does it do?
Sloth A
It helps you check the exposure and see how well your images are balanced in tones.
Sloth B
verb
Definition

To change an image or display so that it only shows shades of gray, without any color.


Example

The photographer decided to grayscale the image to give it a classic look.


Tense Forms

Past: grayscaled

Past Participle: grayscaled


Conversation
Sloth A
I was thinking of editing my photos to make them look more artistic.
Sloth B
That sounds cool! Are you going to grayscale them?
Sloth A
Yes, I think it will give them a nice vintage vibe.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Grayscale is formed from "gray" (from Old English *grǽg*, meaning of a color between black and white) and "scale" (from Latin *scala*, meaning a ladder or series). The word refers to a range of shades of gray, representing the scale of color between black and white.

Memory Tip

Think of the color 'gray' as being in between black and white, and 'scale' as a series of shades. This helps you remember that 'grayscale' refers to the range of gray shades.

Visually Confused Words
rascal
Is this page helpful?
That sounds really useful! I'll definitely look into getting one.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
monochrome
shade
tint
Antonyms
color
hue
saturation
Definitely! I can't wait to see how they turn out.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
desaturate
tone
shade
Antonyms
color
brighten
vividify