What are colors opposite each other on the color wheel called?

• A. Complementary colors
• B. Analogous colors
• C. Primary colors
• D. Neutral tones

Answer: (A)

Opposite colors on the color wheel are called complementary colors. This pairing is defined by the strong contrast they create when placed together, which is why it’s the best answer to what colors opposite each other are called. For example, red pairs with green, blue with orange, and yellow with purple. This concept is useful in PMU because complementary colors can balance or neutralize undertones when adjusting pigment tones. In contrast, analogous colors are neighbors on the wheel and blend harmoniously without strong contrast, primary colors are the basic spectrum hues used to mix others, and neutral tones are muted browns, grays, or beiges that don’t sit opposite each other on the wheel.