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to counterchange

to counterchange

9.3
To swap the colors or patterns of opposite areas in a design
  • verb
  • /ˈkaʊntərˌʧeɪndʒ/
  • Specialized
translation icon : contracambiar
  • The artist decided to counterchange the colors in the painting.

Examples

  • Can you counterchange the design for better contrast?

  • To make the logo stand out, they counterchanged the two main colors in the design.

  • The designer decided to counterchange the background and foreground colors for a striking effect.

  • In heraldry, artists often counterchange patterns to create a balanced and mirrored look.

  • To make the logo stand out, they counterchanged the two main colors in the design.

  • The designer decided to counterchange the background and foreground colors for a striking effect.

  • In heraldry, artists often counterchange patterns to create a balanced and mirrored look.

Synonyms

to reverse
vsto counterchange
329 3.2

To change something so its position, order, or effect is opposite

applies specifically to swapping colors or tones in a design

Surface Forms

counterchange infinitive
counterchanged past participle
counterchanging present participle
counterchanges third person singular

Morphology

counterchange = change (transparent) = counter + change

Productive prefixation with an obvious meaning: 'counter-' (against/opposite) + 'change' (to alter) yields 'to reverse or swap', which learners can deduce.

Etymology

Counterchange comes from the parts counter meaning 'opposite' and change meaning 'to swap'. So to counterchange colors or tones is to make opposing areas exchange their look, for example swapping background and foreground colors in a design.