counterpoint

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "counterpoint" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is a noun that refers to something that contrasts with or complements another, or that serves as a point of comparison. For example: "The counterpoint of his calm demeanor was the hint of excitement in his voice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The alternative Christmas message, a counterpoint to the traditional festive broadcast by the Queen, began in 1993 with a broadcast from the writer and gay activist Quentin Crisp.

The Guardian

As Christie considers a Republican presidential campaign, the prospect of a renaissance for heavily Democratic Camden would offer a useful counterpoint to New Jersey's lackluster economic performance.

The Guardian

For nationalists, the SDLP emerged as a counterpoint to the surging IRA violence, after the suspension of the Northern Ireland parliament in 1972.

The Guardian

Maybe it's time to push for a new kind of relationship equality, as a counterpoint to marriage equality.

The Guardian - Money

She would have preferred the Beatles, but interpreted his seriousness, accurately, as a counterpoint to the waistcoat.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

(In counterpoint, my grandfather explained that "the Ambassador … had many stories of Mexican politics that sound like the intrigues of the Middle Ages". The Mexicans – unlike their righteous northern neighbours – "are certainly unscrupulous").

The Guardian - Opinion

This week's Making the City Playable conference in Bristol brings together city authorities, citizens and practitioners to explore how enabling greater play in our cities can enrich the urban experience and provide a counterpoint to the notion of the hyper-regulated "smart city".

The Guardian

Together the weather is a language we can barely understand; but confessional experts detect in the senseless diktat of hurricane a hymning of our sins, our stupid counterpoint.

The Guardian

He later apologised, but the damage was done.To raise the spectre of a return to 1930s fascism, however, is "not the right question," argues Catherine Fieschi, director of Counterpoint, a British think-tank.

The Economist

Their rulers are more smug than ever, as is the Arabs' eternal enemy and political counterpoint, Israel, secure and prosperous as never before.And this is not to mention the cost in blood of the Arab revolts, let alone the utter calamity that has befallen Syria's 23m people, and increasingly many of their neighbours.

The Economist

This is a perfectly respectable point of view and it is an interesting counterpoint to Mr Blair's fervent belief in what he calls the "enabling state .But it is hard to see how Mr Howard's enthusiasm for a greatly shrunken state combines with his need to persuade those distrustful voters that the public services will be safe in Tory hands.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "counterpoint" to introduce contrasting or complementary elements in your writing, enhancing the depth and complexity of your arguments or descriptions.

Common error

Avoid using "counterpoint" solely to indicate a difference; ensure there's an implied or explicit relationship of enhancement or balance between the contrasting elements.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "counterpoint" is as a noun, denoting an element that contrasts with and complements another. Ludwig's examples illustrate its role in adding depth and complexity to arguments and descriptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "counterpoint" is a versatile term used to describe elements that contrast yet complement each other. Ludwig AI confirms that its grammatical status is correct, and its frequency is very common across various contexts, especially in News & Media. When using "counterpoint", ensure you're not simply indicating a difference but rather highlighting a relationship of enhancement or balance. Related terms include "contrast" and "juxtaposition", each offering subtly different nuances. Remember, mastering the use of "counterpoint" can add depth and sophistication to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contrast

A general term for highlighting differences, less nuanced than "counterpoint".

juxtaposition

Focuses on placing two things side by side for contrasting effect.

contrasting element

Focuses on the element of contrast, omitting the idea of complementary relationship.

alternative perspective

Focuses on offering a different outlook or point of view.

opposite viewpoint

Highlights the opposing perspective, rather than a musical or artistic element.

balancing factor

Highlights the role of creating balance or equilibrium.

complementary aspect

Emphasizes the aspect of complementing something else, lacking the contrasting element.

complement

Stresses the aspect of enhancing or completing something else.

foil

A literary term indicating contrast, generally between characters.

antithesis

A direct opposite, potentially stronger in its contrast.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "counterpoint" in a sentence?

Use "counterpoint" to introduce an element that contrasts with, yet complements, another. For example, "The alternative Christmas message, a "counterpoint to" the traditional festive broadcast by the Queen, began in 1993".

What are some alternatives to using "counterpoint" in writing?

Consider using alternatives like "contrast", "juxtaposition", or "foil", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "counterpoint" only applicable in musical contexts?

No, while "counterpoint" originated in music, it's used more broadly to describe contrasting or complementary elements in various fields, including literature, politics, and art.

What's the difference between "counterpoint" and "contradiction"?

"Counterpoint" implies a contrasting yet harmonious relationship, while "contradiction" suggests a direct opposition without necessarily any complementary aspect. The former often enhances understanding; the latter creates conflict.