counterplot: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Formal, Literary, espionage/narrative contexts.
Quick answer
What does “counterplot” mean?
A plot or scheme intended to oppose or defeat another plot.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A plot or scheme intended to oppose or defeat another plot.
A secret plan made in response to an existing scheme, with the aim of thwarting it, typically in contexts of intrigue, espionage, or personal rivalry.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage. The word is equally rare in both varieties.
Connotations
Connotes sophisticated, often literary, intrigue.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both varieties. More likely found in historical or espionage literature than in everyday speech.
Grammar
How to Use “counterplot” in a Sentence
counterplot (against N)counterplot to V (e.g., to foil/disrupt)N's counterplot against NVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “counterplot” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- They decided to counter-plot against the rogue agent's scheme.
- The spymaster spent weeks counter-plotting to neutralise the threat.
American English
- The agency moved quickly to counter-plot the terrorists' plans.
- He counter-plotted an elaborate ruse to expose the corruption.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might be used metaphorically for a competitive strategic response.
Academic
Rare, mostly in literary, historical, or political analysis of narratives and intrigues.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would sound overly formal or literary.
Technical
Not used in technical fields. Confined to narrative/espionage contexts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “counterplot”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “counterplot”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “counterplot”
- Using it as a verb without the hyphen (verb is 'counter-plot').
- Using it to mean any opposing plan, rather than one specifically against a *secret* plot.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a rare, formal word used primarily in literary or narrative contexts involving complex intrigue.
The verb is 'to counter-plot', usually hyphenated.
A 'counterplot' specifically opposes a secret, often malicious, scheme (a plot). A 'counterplan' is a more general opposing plan and lacks the connotations of secrecy and intrigue.
It would be highly unusual and sound overly dramatic. Terms like 'counter-strategy' or 'countermove' are more appropriate for business contexts.
A plot or scheme intended to oppose or defeat another plot.
Counterplot is usually formal, literary, espionage/narrative contexts. in register.
Counterplot: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkaʊntəplɒt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkaʊntərplɑːt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A plot and a counterplot”
- “To weave a counterplot”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'COUNTER' (against) + 'PLOT' (secret plan) = a secret plan made against another secret plan.
Conceptual Metaphor
INTELLECTUAL WARFARE IS CHESS (making a move against your opponent's move).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'counterplot' most appropriately used?