Counterpoints

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A set of differing arguments or perspectives that serve to challenge or enhance a primary point of view in a conversation or debate
2. Collections of opposing or complementary opinions that provide a richer understanding of a topic through contrast and dialogue
3. Views or opinions that contrast with or oppose another in discussions ; independent melodic lines combined harmoniously in music

Etymology: The most surprising link here is that "counterpoint" once had nothing to do with music or argument. In Old French, "contrepointe" was a corruption of "coultepointe," itself from Latin "culcita puncta," meaning a stitched pillow or quilted cover. The "quilt" connection comes from the stitching: the "point" was the stitch, and the cover was built by pricking through layers of fabric. The musical sense grew from the idea of setting one note against another. Medieval Latin "contrapunctum" referred to writing notes "point against point," that is, placing a note directly over another. Musicians borrowed the image of one stitch laid against another, and the term moved from the bedcover to the composer's desk. The argumentative sense is a later extension of the musical one: opposing lines that sound distinct yet work together became a metaphor for opposing views that still engage one another. The word thus carries its original image of two separate threads joined in a single fabric.

Synonyms: contrasts, oppositions, contradictions, divergences, disagreements

Antonyms: agreements, consensus, concurrences, harmony, accord