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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Recent Examples of counterpoint
In recent decades the Mexican celebration of Día de los Muertos has been widely embraced across the Bay Area, providing a comforting counterpoint to the thrills, chills and shenanigans of Halloween.
—
Andrew Gilbert, Mercury News, 22 Oct. 2025
Larry Stanton’s life offers a counterpoint.
—Alessia Glaviano, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2025
Allan’s voice is as gritty as ever, and is an effective counterpoint to Dean’s more polished delivery.
—Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 20 Oct. 2025
Soften the Landings Even a small lawn in a city yard can make a big difference, offering a green counterpoint to hardscaping elsewhere.
—Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for counterpoint
Andrew Gilbert, Mercury News, 22 Oct. 2025
Larry Stanton’s life offers a counterpoint.
—Alessia Glaviano, Vogue, 20 Oct. 2025
Allan’s voice is as gritty as ever, and is an effective counterpoint to Dean’s more polished delivery.
—Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 20 Oct. 2025
Soften the Landings Even a small lawn in a city yard can make a big difference, offering a green counterpoint to hardscaping elsewhere.
—Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for counterpoint
Recent Examples of Synonyms for counterpoint
Noun
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In contrast, Roosevelt set out to create a press-savvy White House that didn’t just tolerate reporters but welcomed them.—
JSTOR Daily,
JSTOR Daily,
7 Nov. 2025
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The historic build-up stands in stark contrast to the United States’ own supply struggles.—
Tamara Qiblawi,
CNN Money,
7 Nov. 2025
Noun
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The coalition’s education drive complements the commission’s research by preparing the community to understand and support whatever proposals eventually emerge.—
J.M. Banks
November 8,
Kansas City Star,
8 Nov. 2025
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The dark chocolate hue complements most decor styles and is both trendy and timeless, plus the deep seat is supported with no-sag springs for better support.—
Paige Bennett,
Better Homes & Gardens,
6 Nov. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Counterpoint.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/counterpoint. Accessed 27 Nov. 2025.
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