In color theory, which term refers to colors that are next to each other on the color wheel?

In color theory, when discussing colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel, the term used is "analogous." This concept refers to groups of colors that are close in hue, typically consisting of three to five colors that blend well together. For example, colors like blue, blue-green, and green are analogous since they are next to one another on the color wheel. This harmony in their appearance often creates serene and visually pleasing designs, making them popular choices in various applications such as fashion and interior design.

The other terms refer to different relationships in color theory. Complementary colors, for instance, are located opposite each other on the color wheel, creating high contrast. Triadic colors are evenly spaced around the color wheel, forming a triangle, while monochromatic colors are variations of a single hue, created by adding white or black to change its tint or shade. Understanding these distinctions helps in effectively utilizing color combinations in design.