How to pronounce counterpoint
Say it like KOWN-ter-poynt. Counterpoint has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KOWN).
Click the play button next to American or British to hear how to pronounce counterpoint. Choose Slow to hear each sound clearly.
- KOWN
- ter
- poynt
- Main stress
- Lighter stress
- Unstressed
Counterpoint pronunciation, sound by sound
Read the parts left to right, then blend them together without pausing.
- KOWNSay this part loudest and longest. The vowel is the "ow" in now.
- terKeep this part quick and light. The vowel is the "er" in butter.
- poyntGive this part a little weight. The vowel is the "oy" in boy.
American vs British pronunciation of counterpoint
- Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead.
British respelling: KOWN-tuh-poynt.
What does counterpoint mean?
- A melody added to an existing one, especially one added to provide harmony whilst each retains its simultaneous identity; a composition consisting of such contrapuntal melodies.
- Any similar contrasting element in a work of art.
- An opposite point.
- To compose or arrange such music.
- To serve as an opposing point against.
Questions about saying counterpoint
How do you pronounce counterpoint?
Say KOWN-ter-poynt. The American pronunciation is /ˈkaʊntɚˌpɔɪnt/. In British English it is /ˈkaʊntəˌpɔɪnt/. Press play above to hear it at normal speed or slowly.
How many syllables are in counterpoint?
Counterpoint has three syllables, and the main stress falls on the first one (KOWN). Broken into parts: KOWN · ter · poynt.
Is counterpoint pronounced differently in British English?
Yes. Americans pronounce the r after a vowel; most British speakers leave it silent and lengthen the vowel instead. The British form is /ˈkaʊntəˌpɔɪnt/ (KOWN-tuh-poynt).