Color Contrast
Color Contrast is the measured light difference between content and its nearby background. It shows whether key text and edges are easy to see.
Another example
The team changes muted text until it is easy to read on light and dark surfaces.
Main parts
- 01Foundation or token
- 02Applied component
- 03Visible state and rule
Use it when
Meet the right WCAG contrast level for text, key icons, focus marks, and component edges. Add another clue when color has meaning.
Do not use it when
A different hue may still have poor contrast. Never use color as the only sign of a status.
Name used in code
contrast ratio Before you ship
Check content order, shared design values, component consistency, contrast, zoom, and layout changes by screen size. Verify every theme, language, and state. If there is motion, offer an equal reduced-motion experience.
Outcome: Use or define Color Contrast to make the visual experience clear and easy to use. User context: The team changes muted text until it is easy to read on light and dark surfaces. Design concept to apply: Color Contrast. Why it fits: Meet the right WCAG contrast level for text, key icons, focus marks, and component edges. Add another clue when color has meaning. Do not use it when: A different hue may still have poor contrast. Never use color as the only sign of a status. Design requirements: Set the content order, shared design values, and reusable components. Define how the layout changes by screen size and state. Keep useful design choices separate from decoration. Inclusion and resilience: Check contrast, zoom, languages, themes, and reduced motion when needed. Do not use color or effects as the only way to show meaning. Acceptance criteria: The design stays clear on phones and desktops, at zoom, in every theme, and in all supported languages. Interactive states stay clear and consistent. Evidence and limits (evidence boundary): The standard covers only the listed scope. It does not choose the visual style, product decision, or Vibulary example. Unknowns to confirm: Brand limits, amount of content, supported themes and languages, target devices, and design-system rules.
Check this request
Review the current use of Color Contrast. Definition: Color Contrast is the measured light difference between content and its nearby background. It shows whether key text and edges are easy to see. Release checks: Check content order, shared design values, component consistency, contrast, zoom, and layout changes by screen size. Verify every theme, language, and state. If there is motion, offer an equal reduced-motion experience. Before changing code, report the evidence you found, gaps, severity, and the smallest safe fix.