What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
counterfort
Example
The counterforts were added to the retaining wall to prevent it from collapsing. [counterfort: noun]
Example
The engineers designed the counterforts to withstand the force of the water. [counterfort: plural noun]
buttress
Example
The buttresses were added to the cathedral to support the weight of the roof. [buttress: noun]
Example
The walls were reinforced with buttresses to withstand the force of the wind. [buttress: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Buttress is more commonly used than counterfort in everyday language. Buttress is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while counterfort is less common and is mainly used in engineering and construction fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between counterfort and buttress?
Both counterfort and buttress are formal words that are mainly used in technical and specialized contexts, such as engineering and architecture. However, buttress is more versatile and can also be used in literary and figurative contexts.
