COUNTERPOINT Synonyms: 26 Similar and Opposite Words

counterpoint

noun

Definition of counterpoint

as in contrast

something or someone that is different from another especially in a pleasing way The warm color palette of the furniture is the perfect counterpoint to the cool walls. The acidity of the sauce works in counterpoint to the richness of the dish.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of counterpoint In a counterpoint essay, health policy and management expert Jeff Levin-Scherz argues that the changes are likely to raise maternity care costs, and that employers that sponsor health insurance plans may bear the brunt of it. — Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 23 July 2026 Fira, the island’s capital, is a livelier counterpoint with a broader selection of restaurants, cultural attractions, and its own sweeping caldera panoramas that rival Oia’s, but without the nightly crowds. — Taryn White, Travel + Leisure, 21 July 2026 Haaland’s singularity was a testament to how humanity seeks heroes — but Spain’s ultimate triumph via crisp passes and selfless teamwork offered a stirring, convincing collective counterpoint. — Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 20 July 2026 For Auf der Maur, the demos represent a private counterpoint to the high-pressure world of major-label alternative rock. — Spin Staff, SPIN, 20 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for counterpoint

Recent Examples of Synonyms for counterpoint

Noun

By contrast, collectivist societies focus more on social harmony and prioritise the group over individual goals, with decisions made based on what is best for the wider community.

— Mark Carey, New York Times, 9 Aug. 2026
By contrast, the defense will point to the parts of the book that are provably false, in an attempt to discredit it, explained David Roger, the former Clark County, Nevada, district attorney.

— Eric Levenson, CNN Money, 9 Aug. 2026

Definition of contrast

Noun

The two complement each other and round out the whole experience.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026
My own favorite album is Huntington Ashram Monastery—split equally between piano and harp, with the note-perfect complement of Ron Carter’s hypnotic double bass and Rashied Ali’s hypersensitive drums.

— Ian Penman, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026