Counterpoint

C1 16+

Pronunciation: /ˈkaʊntərˌpɔɪnt/

Definitions of counterpoint

noun a contrasting or opposing element, idea, or theme in a work of art, music, literature, etc.

Example Sentences

A1 In music, a counterpoint is a combination of two melodies that are played together.

A2 The author used counterpoint to create tension between the two main characters in the novel.

B1 The artist's use of color and texture created a beautiful counterpoint in the painting.

B2 The film director expertly used counterpoint to juxtapose the protagonist's actions with the antagonist's motives.

C1 The playwright's use of counterpoint added depth and complexity to the dialogue between the characters.

C2 The composer's mastery of counterpoint was evident in the intricate harmonies and melodies of the symphony.

verb to contrast with or be in opposition to something

Example Sentences

A1 She counterpoints her friend's argument with valid points of her own.

A2 The teacher encouraged the students to counterpoint each other's opinions during the discussion.

B1 In a debate, it is important to counterpoint the opposing side's arguments effectively.

B2 The author skillfully counterpoints the protagonist's actions with the antagonist's motives.

C1 The politician expertly counterpoints the criticisms of his policies with data and statistics.

C2 The musician's ability to counterpoint melodies and harmonies sets him apart from others in the industry.

Examples of counterpoint in a Sentence

formal The composer used a beautiful counterpoint between the violin and cello in the concerto.

informal The back-and-forth counterpoint between the two actors on stage was really entertaining.

slang The counterpoint between the two rappers in the freestyle battle was fire.

figurative The contrasting colors in the painting created a visual counterpoint that drew the viewer's eye.

Grammatical Forms of counterpoint

plural

counterpoints

comparative

more counterpoint

superlative

most counterpoint

present tense

counterpoints

future tense

will counterpoint

perfect tense

have counterpointed

continuous tense

is counterpointing

singular

counterpoint

positive degree

counterpoint

infinitive

to counterpoint

gerund

counterpointing

participle

counterpointed

Origin and Evolution of counterpoint

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'counterpoint' originated from the Latin word 'punctus contra punctum', which means 'point against point'. It was used in medieval music theory to refer to the combination of different melodic lines.
Evolution of the word: Over time, 'counterpoint' evolved to also refer to the technique of combining different musical voices or instruments in a harmonious way. It later extended to other fields such as literature and art to describe the juxtaposition of contrasting elements.