blæk ənd waɪt
Colors
neutral
beginner
- Literally:
- the colors black and white
What does "black and white" mean?
- clearly defined with no ambiguity
- presenting only two extreme positions with no middle ground
Examples
- The rules are black and white — no exceptions allowed.
- Life isn't always black and white; there are many shades of grey.
- He sees everything in black and white, with no room for nuance.
Origin
From the stark visual contrast between black and white, suggesting clear distinction. Used figuratively since at least the 19th century.
How to use it
Can be positive (clarity) or negative (oversimplification), depending on context. Often used with 'see things in' or 'put it in.'
Similar expressions
clear-cut
straightforward
unambiguous
Opposites
grey area
nuanced
ambiguous
Related idioms
- silver lining
a positive aspect of an otherwise bad situation
- grey area
a situation or topic that is unclear or not well-defined
- give the green light
to give permission or approval to proceed
- black sheep
a member of a group who is considered different or disreputable
- golden opportunity
an excellent or ideal chance that may not come again
- white lie
a harmless or small lie told to avoid hurting someone's feelings
Use it in a practice answer
Try "black and white" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.