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counterthrust

counterthrust

8.2
A sharp reply that answers an accusation or argument
  • noun
  • /ˈkaʊntərˌθrʌst/
translation icon : rebatir
  • Her clever counterthrust silenced the critics during the heated discussion.

Examples

  • He was prepared for every accusation with a well-timed counterthrust.

  • The politician's counterthrust turned the argument in his favor.

  • Her counterthrust left him speechless.

  • The politician's counterthrust effectively refuted the claims.

  • Her clever counterthrust during the debate effectively addressed the accusations made against her.

  • The politician's counterthrust was so strong that it shifted public opinion in his favor immediately.

  • He responded to the criticism with a sharp counterthrust that left everyone considering his viewpoint.

Synonyms

rebuttal
vscounterthrust
60 6.7

A statement that says another person's argument is wrong

is a sharper, often immediate reply rather than a full disproof
retort
vscounterthrust
14 6.1

A quick clever reply to a comment that shows anger or wit

is similarly sharp but can also be an effective action not only words
counterargument
vscounterthrust
11 5.1

A reason that disagrees with another reason in a discussion

is more forceful and often shorter than a multipoint refutation
rejoinder
vscounterthrust
4 7.7

A quick clever reply that answers and often criticizes someone

is comparable in sharpness but may be aimed at formal accusations
countercharge
vscounterthrust
4 8.0

An accusation that someone makes in reply to shift blame

is a defensive, often corrective reply rather than a new accusation
counterpunch
vscounterthrust
3 6.5

A punch thrown back at an opponent after they attack

is a sharper reply concept that can be verbal or strategic rather than only physical
countermove
vscounterthrust
2 6.7

An action to respond to an opponent and get back an advantage

is usually narrower and sharper, focused on replying to accusations or arguments
counteraction
vscounterthrust
1 6.3

An action that reduces or stops the effect of something

is a quicker, sharper reactive move specifically addressing an argument or accusation
counterstatement
vscounterthrust
  • Formal
1 7.3

A written or spoken reply that opposes another claim

is typically more immediate and forceful than a formal written response
counterreaction
vscounterthrust
1 5.9

A response that cancels a previous action

is a more targeted sharp reply or action aimed at the original accusation
counterblast
vscounterthrust
8.5

A strong public reaction that opposes someone's words or actions

is a sharp effective reply or action specifically after an accusation or argument
counterdeclaration
vscounterthrust
  • Formal
9.0

A written reply that opposes another statement

is usually a sharper, more directly aimed reaction than a formal reply
sharp riposte
vscounterthrust
8.2

A quick clever reply that answers an insult or criticism

is equally quick but can also be an effective nonverbal action
counterblow
vscounterthrust
7.9

A hit given back after an attack

is similar in retaliation but often applies to verbal arguments as well as strikes

Antonyms

361 1.0

A situation in which people have the same opinion or give their approval

104 2.7

Being approved or welcomed by other people

How Forceful

refutation
  • Formal
10 6.8
counterthrust
8.2
rebuttal
60 6.7
answer
1.0

Surface Forms

counterthrust singular

Morphology

counterthrust = thrust (transparent) = counter + thrust

Metaphorical extension from a physical 'thrust' to a verbal or argumentative reply is straightforward given 'counter' indicating response.

Etymology

Counterthrust joins counter- ('against' or 'in reply') with thrust ('a strong push'), giving a clear image of a push back. That is why a counterthrust can mean a sharp, effective reply that forces the other side back in an argument.