counterpoint

• Nom désignant une technique musicale combinant deux ou plusieurs lignes mélodiques indépendantes, ou un élément contrasté dans un débat ou une œuvre artistique.

A noun referring to a musical technique involving the combination of two or more independent melodic lines, or a contrasting element in an argument or artistic work.

1. Musical techniqueC1formalart

   The art of combining two or more independent melodic lines in a harmonious way.

   Contrepoint

   • Bach's fugues are masterpieces of counterpoint.
   • The composer studied counterpoint at the conservatory.
   • In this piece, the violin and cello create a beautiful counterpoint.

   Synonymespolyphony

2. Contrasting elementC1formal

   Something that contrasts with or complements another element, often in a discussion or argument.

   Élément contrastant

   • Her calm demeanor was a perfect counterpoint to his excitement.
   • The author uses humor as a counterpoint to the tragic events.
   • The quiet countryside serves as a counterpoint to the bustling city life.

   Synonymesantithesiscomplementcontrastcounterpartfoilopposite

• Verbe utilisé pour désigner l'action d'opposer ou de mettre en contraste une chose avec une autre, souvent dans une discussion, en musique ou dans une composition artistique.

A verb used to indicate the act of contrasting or setting something against another, often in argument, music, or artistic composition.

1. Contrast or complementC1formal

   To emphasize a contrast or provide a complementary element to something.

   Contrepointer, contraster, compléter

   • The bright colors counterpoint the dark background in the painting.
   • Her calm demeanor counterpoints his aggressive style.
   • The author uses humor to counterpoint the serious themes of the novel.

   Synonymescomplementcontrastcounterbalancejuxtaposeoffsetset off