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contrapunto

counterpoint

noun kon-trah-POON-toh Rare

Origin: Medieval Latin contrapunctum (note against note)

Also means

contrast

Usage Note

Contrapunto is a music theory term for the technique of combining independent melodic lines; outside music it means a contrasting element that highlights another, as in su silencio era un contrapunto a su discurso apasionado. The word is used in both formal criticism and everyday journalism.

Examples

"El violín añade un contrapunto al tema principal."

Natural Translation

The violin adds a counterpoint to the main theme.

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