The term “monochromatic” refers to something having or consisting of only one color. However, there is some debate around whether black, white, and shades of gray can be considered monochromatic. While some argue that monochromatic strictly means one hue, others believe that different tones and shades of a color like black and white should qualify as monochromatic. There are good arguments on both sides of this debate, which we’ll explore in this article.
Definitions of Monochromatic
To understand whether black and white is monochromatic, we first need to look at some textbook definitions of the term:
| Cambridge Dictionary | Having or consisting of only one color, or variations in lightness and darkness of one color. |
| Merriam-Webster | Having, appearing in, or used in only one color. |
| Oxford Dictionary | Containing or using only one color. |
At first glance, these definitions seem to imply that true monochromatic means only one hue on the color wheel, excluding black, white, and shades of gray. The key phrases “only one color” and “one color” reinforce the idea that monochromatic is strictly limited to a single hue.
However, there is room for interpretation in these definitions, as terms like “variations” and “shades” hint that tones of a color may also qualify as monochromatic. This is where the debate around black and white comes into play.
The Argument for Black and White as Monochromatic
While traditional definitions point to monochromatic meaning a single hue, there are several reasons why black and white can also logically be considered monochromatic colors:
Black and White Are Colored
Black and white have historically been considered colors, both scientifically and artistically. Black is the result of an object absorbing all visible wavelengths of light. White is the result of reflecting all visible wavelengths of light. While not on the traditional color wheel, they are colors defined by light physics.
Shades of Gray Are Monochromatic
No one disputes that different shades of gray are monochromatic. But shades of gray are simply variations between black and white. So including shades of gray as monochromatic means that black and white themselves can reasonably be considered variations on the same color.
Common Artistic Usage
Artists commonly refer to black and white pieces, photographs, and designs as “monochromatic.” While not technical, this broad artistic usage points to black and white being widely accepted as a monochromatic color scheme.
Single Pigment Argument
Mixing all primary paint pigments together results in black. And white is the natural base pigment. So black and white each are made up of a single primary pigment, meeting a logical definition of monochromatic as “single color.”
Reasons for Excluding Black and White
Now that we’ve looked at reasons why black and white can be considered monochromatic, let’s examine the opposing view that they should be excluded:
Traditional Color Theory
In color theory, monochromatic specifically refers to variations within a single hue. Black, white and gray are considered achromatic colors outside the color spectrum. So by textbook color theory, they cannot be classified as monochromatic.
Simple Language Interpretation
The everyday interpretation of “mono” is single and “chromatic” is color. So monochromatic should simply mean one single color, excluding all other hues or achromatic shades.
Technical and Artistic Distinction
While artists may take liberties in calling black and white monochromatic, technically they are distinct. True monochromatic should only refer to single hue variations, excluding black, white and gray.
Not Interchangeable
You cannot interchangeably substitute black and white for any other color and achieve the same effect. This indicates they are fundamentally different from hue variations that define monochromatic.
Examples Comparing Monochromatic and Black & White
Looking at some visual examples can help illustrate the distinction between a color scheme that is purely monochromatic, only using shades of one hue, versus a black and white color scheme:
| Monochromatic green color scheme using only shades of green. | Black and white photo using only black, white and grays. |
As you can see, the monochromatic example on the left uses only variations of the green hue. The black and white example on the right uses only neutral black, white and grays. While similar, they are technically different based on formal color theory.
When Can Black and White Be Considered Monochromatic?
Given the arguments on both sides, when is it appropriate to consider black and white a monochromatic color scheme? Here are some guidelines:
- In technical color theory terminology, monochromatic should exclude black, white and gray.
- In common and artistic usage, black and white is often acceptable as monochromatic.
- Black and white on their own can be called achromatic or neutral color schemes.
- Combining black, white and one hue can be called monochromatic (e.g. black, white and red).
So in summary, for technical accuracy, monochromatic should refer only to shades of a single hue. But black and white may be considered monochromatic in common usage, especially when combined with a single color hue.
Designing with Black, White and Color
Regardless of the technical definition, black and white can be combined beautifully with a single color hue to create a cohesive and dramatic color scheme. Here are some tips for working with black, white and color:
Choose a Vibrant Hue
A deeply saturated color works best against high-contrast black and white. Hues like red, green and purple stand out boldly.
Use Black and White as Accents
Use black and white sparingly to sharpen and accentuate the color, rather than allowing the neutral shades to dominate.
Highlight with White Space
White space helps focus the eye on the color and creates modern minimalism. Generous margins and gaps give impact.
Emphasize Texture
Texture adds tactile interest in black and white areas. Use textured materials, patterns and photographic textures.
Add personality with a bright colored font
A bright solid colored font that complements the color scheme can personalize a monochromatic design.
Conclusion
While monochromatic technically means variations of a single hue, black and white are often included as monochromatic in common usage. The distinction is useful when precision is required, for example in technical color theory. But in graphics, design and art, black, white and a single color hue can interact beautifully to create bold, minimalist monochromatic styles.
The key considerations are:
- Technically, monochromatic excludes black, white and gray.
- Black and white alone are more accurately called achromatic.
- In popular usage, black and white designs are described as monochromatic.
- Black, white and a single color hue can be beautiful and cohesive.
So feel free to leverage black, white and a bold pop of color to create dramatic monochromatic styles. By keeping the palette limited but contrasting, any design can become crisp, eye-catching and impactful.