Word
counterpoint
Phoneticscoun·ter·point, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈkaʊntɝˌpɔɪnt/
UK/kˈaʊntəpˌɔɪnt/
Definitions
01music
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Music Technical
n. a melody played at the same time as another melody to create harmony.
n. the technique of combining two or more melodic lines in such a way that they establish a harmonic relationship while retaining their linear individuality.
“The composer used counterpoint to make the two instruments sound like they were having a conversation.”
“Bach is widely considered the master of Baroque counterpoint, demonstrating an unparalleled ability to weave multiple independent voices into a cohesive harmonic whole.”
Usage
Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the technique itself.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02a contrasting element
C1 · Advanced Countable noun Academic
n. something that provides a contrast to something else in a work of art or a story.
n. a contrasting but parallel element, theme, or idea used to enhance or clarify the primary subject through juxtaposition.
“The bright colors in the painting serve as a cheerful counterpoint to the sad subject matter.”
“The protagonist's cynical worldview provides a sharp counterpoint to the naive optimism expressed by the secondary characters throughout the novel.”
Synonyms
03to contrast with
C2 · Proficiency Literary · Formal
v. to act as a contrast to something else.
v. to serve as an opposing or contrasting point against another element; to set in contrast.
“The soft music was chosen to counterpoint the violent scenes in the movie.”
“The director sought to counterpoint the bleakness of the urban landscape with occasional bursts of vibrant, surrealist imagery.”
Usage
This transitive verb requires a direct object.
Real-World Examples
“Opener You Got the Love offers thrillingly gritty funk – the perfect counterpoint to lush Philly soul – and Chaka in full effect.” “In unison, they can bring the automated air of the commute, making a counterpoint to one aching duet choreographed with a behind-closed-doors tenderness.” Etymology
Inherited from Middle English [Term?], from Middle French contrepoint, from Medieval Latin contrāpūnctum. Equivalent to counter- + point.
From Old French contrepointe, a corruption of coultepointe, from Latin culcita puncta, i.e. a stitched pillow or cover. See quilt.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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