laying-on (in painting); background description; set off
Meanings
3 senses · 9 examplesnoun
laying-on technique (in Chinese painting); applying washes or light colors around an outline to highlight the subject
technicalA traditional Chinese painting technique used to make the main subject stand out by applying ink or light color washes around its edges.
This painting uses light ink washes to highlight the hazy feeling of the distant mountains.
The painter is skilled at using the laying-on technique to show the delicate beauty of flowers.
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In this landscape painting, the use of the laying-on technique makes the main peak appear exceptionally majestic.
verb
to build up (in writing); to describe indirectly first, then reveal the main theme
literaryA literary technique where background or secondary details are described first to lead up to and emphasize the main subject.
The novel uses three chapters at the beginning to build up the tense atmosphere before the main character's entrance.
The author builds up the heroism of the protagonist by describing the reactions of minor characters.
verb
to set off; to act as a foil; to contrast in order to highlight
Often used to describe how one element enhances another through contrast or complementarity, making the main subject more prominent.
The blue sky sets off the white clouds.
Red flowers need green leaves to set them off.
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His silence set off the awkward atmosphere of the scene.
The melodious music set off the romance of the wedding.