point1 nounpoint2 verb
pointpoint1 /pɔɪnt/ ●●● S1 W1 noun 
WORD ORIGINpoint1
Origin:
1200-1300 Partly from Old French point ‘small hole or spot, point in time or space’, from Latin punctum, from pungere ( ➔ PUNGENT); partly from Old French pointe ‘sharp end’, from Vulgar Latin puncta, from Latin pungereEXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- "I'll come straight to the point," said the doctor. "I think you are suffering from depression."
- a pencil point
- Almost everything has been agreed. There is just one final point that needs to be settled.
- Ben carved his name in the tree trunk, using the point of his knife.
- By mixing metals it is possible to make alloys which are tougher and have a lower melting point than the individual metals.
- Damon Hill leads the Formula 1 Championship, with 58 points from 6 races.
- Exactly what point are you trying to make, Nick?
- His plan has both good and bad points.
- I can't see the point of travelling all that way and then only staying for one day.
- In darts, you get 50 points for hitting the bullseye.
- In his speech, Marks made the point that far more people died from smoking tobacco than from taking drugs.
- It has small white flowers, and leaves that taper to a sharp point.
- Line A crosses line B at point C.
- Make a list of the main points in the article.
- Michael's point about training is an interesting one.
- one point nine percent
- Reeves scored 23 points for Arizona.
- Soon they came to a point where the road divided.
- Steve Jones is 15 points ahead.
- Cicely makes six points, grabs four rebounds and finally seems to know what plays are being run.
- Each point in the ratio meant 100, 000 tons of capital ships, or the equivalent of about three battleships.
- From this point on, to stop short will be difficult and frustrating.
- How it got to this point is there was an investigation of a staff member abusing a child.
- In other words, an increase in expected inflation of 5 percentage points shifts the Phillips curve upwards by 5 percentage points.
- The market place was the growing point of most towns, and they have taken their shape around it.
- They are now 0-6 in games decided by six points or fewer.
- This survey data is cross-section data taken from a sample of households at a particular point in time.
THESAURUS
something that you say or write in order to give your opinion: · Does anyone have any comments?· Readers are invited to send in their comments and suggestions.
something that you say: · Just ignore them if they start making rude remarks.· I’m not sure what he meant by that last remark.
something that someone mentions about a subject in a discussion, argument, article etc: · That’s an interesting point, Steve.· He raises (=mentions) a number of important points in his paper.
a comment in which you say what you think or have noticed about something: · Karl Marx made the observation that history repeats itself first as tragedy, second as farce.
a comment made in a low voice, that you intend only certain people to hear: · ‘Is that true?’ she whispered in an aside to Don.
a clever and amusing comment: · She knew she should reply with some light-hearted quip.
informal a comment you make to annoy or criticize someone: · I’m tired of her little digs at me.
a comment intended to make someone angry or upset: · The fans made racist taunts throughout the game.
the part of a place or object that is furthest from the centre or the beginning: · the end of the table· the end of the street
the end of something, especially something pointed: · the tip of your nose· an arrow tip
the sharp end of something: · The point of the pencil broke.
one of several parts of a long process, which happen one after another: · At this stage of the election campaign, it is impossible to predict who will win.· She is still in the early stages of pregnancy.· Piaget famously divided childhood into four separate stages.· the opening stages of the race
one of the parts of a process that you have to do or deal with in order to go on to the next one: · The first step is to make a list of what you need.· What’s the next step?· You have to do this one step at a time.
one of the clearly separate stages of a process or activity, during which a type of activity takes place that is different from those in other phases: · the initial phase of the campaign· They were now entering the final phase of their journey.
one of the parts that an event or activity is divided into, especially talks or a sports competition: · the first round of the negotiations· the final round of the competition· The next round of the trade talks will be held in Geneva.
a specific time or moment during the course of something: · What do you really want at this point in your life?· By this point they were starting to feel more confident.
a point or area, especially one that you visit or use for a particular purpose: · He’s been to lots of places.· a good meeting place
the exact place where someone or something is, in relation to other things: · She showed me the position of the village on the map.· I changed the position of the mirror slightly.· Jessica moved to a position where she could see the stage better.
a particular place on a line or surface: · At this point the path gets narrower.· No cars are allowed beyond this point.
a place, especially a particular kind of place, or a place where something happens. Spot sounds rather informal: · She chose a sunny spot.· The area is a favourite spot for windsurfers.· This is the exact spot where I asked her to marry me.
a place where someone or something is, or where something happens. Location sounds more formal than place: · your exact location· The prisoners were taken to an undisclosed location.· an ideal location for a winter break
a place, especially one that will be used for a particular purpose, or where something important happened: · the site of a great battle· There are plans to develop the site for housing.· The area has become a dumping site for nuclear waste.
a place where something such as a meeting, concert, game etc takes place: · the venue for the next Olympic Games· The hotel is a popular wedding venue.
the place where something bad such as an accident or crime happened: · the scene of the crime· Ambulance crews were at the scene within minutes.
the place and the area around it, where something is or where something happens: · The hotel is in a beautiful setting.· the setting for the film ‘A Room With a View’· Beautiful gardens provide the perfect setting for outdoor dining.
used for talking about a place when you are not sure exactly which place: · She came from somewhere in London.
the place where someone or something is – used especially when you do not know this or do not want to tell people: · The whereabouts of the painting is unknown.· He refused to disclose his whereabouts.· I’m not sure about her whereabouts.
a time when something happens a time when something happens or when you should do something: · The last time I saw her she was in high school.· It’s time for you to go to bed.· The best time to visit Scotland is in late May.
a time when something happens. Occasion is more formal than time: · They have been seen together on several occasions.· The last occasion the two teams met, the Giants won easily.
a particular point in time when something happens: · At that moment (=at exactly that time), the door bell rang.· The next moment she was gone.
a particular time during a longer period of time: · At one point during the play she completely forgot her lines.· the lowest point of the holiday
Longman Language Activatorthe best part of something also the best bit British informal the best part of something such as an occasion, event etc: · The best part of the movie is the ending.· What was the best part of your vacation?
the best and most exciting part of something such as a journey, a film, or a period of time: · When I was young, Christmas was the highlight of the year.· We were looking forward to seeing the pyramids, which promised to be the highlight of our trip.
the best part of something, or the best moment of something: · The two days we spent in Granada were the high point of our trip.· Winning the 1994 World Championship was probably the high point of his career.
the best and most impressive part of something that someone has made, especially a meal: · And now for my pièce de résistance -- wild mushrooms cooked in red wine.
one part of the character of something a part of the character of something that makes it clearly different from or similar to other things: · One of the characteristics of this species is the dark blue markings on its back.· The main characteristics of capitalism are private ownership of capital and freedom of enterprise.share characteristics/have characteristics in common (=have similar characteristics): · The UK shares many characteristics with other European countries.· The two diseases have a number of characteristics in common.
an important part of the character of something, especially a part that is good: · There are certain qualities in Orwell's prose that I greatly admire.· Despite its many qualities, the school simply isn't getting results.· This wine possesses a unique quality.a quality of: · There is a wonderful quality of innocence in these paintings.
a characteristic that a particular substance or chemical has: · The properties of the soil influence the growth of the plants.· We test the chemical and biological properties of the samples.· The conducting properties of solids vary widely.
an important, noticeable, or interesting characteristic of something: · The hotel's most attractive feature is its magnificent view of Mount Hood.· Patriotism was a prominent feature in Bush's election campaign.a feature of: · Information on employment is a central feature of this training course.
a characteristic of an organization or system, especially a good characteristic: · He possesses the essential attributes of a journalist.· She spent most of the interview describing the company's attributes to me.
informal a characteristic of something, especially one that you like or dislike: · The thing that I really hate about this job is having to work late at night.· All that lovely fresh air -- that's the best thing about living in the country.
the good or bad things about a place or thing: · The city is big and noisy, but it does have its good points too.
you say this when there's something about a thing, a place, someone's behaviour etc that you like or dislike, but you're not sure exactly what it is: · There's something very strange about this whole affair.· There was something about the place that gave me the creeps.
not connected with the subject you are talking about · Chris continued to annoy her with questions on totally irrelevant subjects.· "But I didn't know it was illegal to park here.'' "That's completely irrelevant.''irrelevant to · To many young people, the church seems outdated and irrelevant to modern times.
spoken say this when you think that what someone has said does not have any real connection with what you are arguing about: · "Is she married or single?" "That's completely beside the point - the question is, does she have the ability to do the job?"
if something has nothing to do with a subject, it is not connected with it in any way: · My back was bothering me a little bit, but that had nothing to do with how badly I played.· I don't know what's the matter with Billy -- he says it's nothing to do with school.· My father was a remote figure who had nothing to do with my everyday life.
British spoken /what does that have to do with ...? especially American, spoken say this when someone has mentioned something and you cannot understand how it is connected with the subject you are talking about: · I realize you didn't get home until after midnight but what does that have to do with coming in late for work?
spoken say this about something that someone has mentioned that does not influence or affect what you are talking about: · Whether the applicant is a man or a woman doesn't come into it.· I'm afraid this is company policy, and your own views on the matter simply don't enter into it.
spoken say this when someone has mentioned something that they think is important but you do not agree: · What I think about your husband is neither here nor there.· It's true we're not friends but that's neither here nor there. We're still able to work together.
if something has no bearing on the situation that you are talking about, it does not affect that situation or help to explain it: · The president's age has no bearing on whether or not I will vote for him.· A suspect's previous criminal record should have no bearing on the trial.
facts or information that are not connected with the subject that is being discussed or considered, and take people's attention away from what is really important: · Concerns about the cost of the project are a red herring.
deliberately if you do something deliberately , you do it because you want to do it, and you hope it will have a particular result or effect: · She left the letter there deliberately so that you'd see it.· Police believe the fire was started deliberately.· Rogers was dismissed from the army for deliberately disobeying an order.· I think he was deliberately ignoring me.
spoken if you do something on purpose , you do it deliberately, for example in order to annoy people or to get an advantage for yourself - use this especially about things that are not very important: · I spilled my drink on purpose -- I needed an excuse to leave the room.· Will always pronounces my name wrong. Do you think he does it on purpose?· Is he really that dumb or is he acting that way on purpose?
if you do something intentionally , you do it deliberately - use this especially about actions that are wrong or illegal: · The jury had to decide whether he killed John Bishop intentionally or whether it was an accident.· The mayor denied intentionally misleading the public and proclaimed his innocence.· The article is intentionally provocative and looks likely to cause a stir.
if you knowingly do something wrong or illegal, you do it even though you know it is wrong: · If any employee knowingly breaks the terms of this contract they will be dismissed immediately.· Stansfield would never have knowingly become involved in political espionage.
if you do something consciously , you do it carefully and you think about it as you are doing it, especially because you know what the result of your actions might be: · I don't think she was consciously trying to hurt your feelings.· Most school teachers do not consciously discriminate between their students.
British /willfully American if you wilfully do something, you do it deliberately or do not try to stop it even though you know it is wrong or it will cause harm -- used especially in legal contexts: · The mother could face a charge of wilfully neglecting her children.· The defendants were convicted of wilfully promoting racial hatred.· The new evidence was either not available or was willfully ignored.
said or done in a way that will make other people notice you, especially to show them that you think they should do something: · Miss Phillips looked at the clock pointedly and I realized that it was time for me to leave.· The shopkeeper made a rude comment about shoplifters and looked pointedly at the boy standing next to me.
to deliberately do something because you think it is important to do it, or because you want other people to notice that you have done it: make a point of doing something: · Kramer made a point of looking very bored while the colonel was speaking.· You should make a point of arriving fifteen minutes early at the office every morning -- show that you're keen.make a point of something: · "Did you complain about it?'' "Yes, I made a point of it.''
a single piece of information a single fact or piece of information about something: · The story's very complicated - I can't remember the exact details.detail of: · The student advice office provides details of all the university courses in the country.· Baker advises the President on the details of foreign policy.personal details (=details such as someone's age, their address, whether they are married etc): · To apply for a loan, first fill in the section marked 'Personal Details'.full details: · For full details of this exclusive offer, just send in a stamped addressed envelope.further details: · The donated liver came from the UK, but the hospital is giving no further details.
a detail that you need to talk about when you are discussing a plan, statement, or written agreement: · There's one point in your letter that is not quite clear.· Almost everything has been agreed. There is just one final point that needs to be settled.small/minor point (=one that is not very important): · We only have a few small points left to discuss.
spoken a detail in something such as a plan, statement, or written agreement: · There's one thing I'm not clear about, and that's how we are going to get to the airport.· In the new version of the story, a few things have been changed.
to emphasize something to say or show that you think something is especially important: · Mann stressed the need to educate people about the risks of AIDS.· She said smoking was not permitted anywhere in the school - emphasizing the word 'anywhere'.emphasize/stress (that): · The County Sheriff emphasized that there was no evidence to show that the driver had been drinking.I can't emphasize enough spoken (=this needs to be emphasized a lot): · I can't emphasize enough how grateful we are for your donations.
to emphasize something such as a problem or a fact, especially by providing new information about it: · This report highlights some of the problems faced by old people in winter.· The slump in the car industry was highlighted by Ford's offer of a $600 rebate on new cars.
if something that happens underlines or underscores a fact, especially one that is already known, it helps to emphasize that it is true: · Yesterday's shelling of a Red Cross hospital underlines the difficulties faced by rescue teams.· The recent rioting in South Africa has underlined the government's lack of control.· The dire state of child health in the country was underscored in a report by UNICEF.
to emphasize a fact or idea by giving additional, often surprising or shocking, information about it: · After the talk, the students were shown a video about heroin addiction to drive the point home.drive the point home/drive home the point that: · The reconstruction of the accident certainly drove home the point that drink-driving can kill.
also make great play of British to emphasize a fact or idea, by giving it more attention than anything else, especially if you are trying to make it seem more important than it really is: · At the interview, remember to play up your experience of teaching in Japan.· On TV last night the Democratic candidate was clearly playing up his caring image.make great play of (doing) something: · The Prime Minister made great play of environmental issues, considering how little the government has done.
to emphasize something, especially the differences between two things or situations: · In Britain, the choice between state and private schools accentuates the differences between rich and poor.· The director uses music to accentuate the rising dramatic tension.
to make something, especially the true facts of a situation, clearer and more noticeable: · Recent protests in the north of the country point up the dilemma the opposition forces are in.· Low literacy rates among the women in this area point up the need for much greater investment in girls' education.
the part at the end of an object the part at the end of something long and narrow: the end of something: · She chewed the end of her pencil thoughtfully.the end of the road/street/passage etc (=the furthest part of the road etc): · Go to the end of the street and turn left.at one end: · You need a long pole with a hook at one end.at both ends/at either end: · We sat in silence at either end of a long wooden table.
the thin, sharp end of something such as a needle, stick, or sword: the point of something: · Ben carved his name in the tree trunk, using the point of his knife.· the point of a needlesharp point: · It has small white flowers, and leaves that taper to a sharp point.
the narrow part at the end of something such as a finger, a branch, or a piece of land: the tip of something: · Doctor Gordon felt my neck with the tips of his fingers.· The village is on the southern tip of the island.
the rounded part at the front of a vehicle such as a plane: nose of: · The nose of the plane dipped as we came in to land.something's nose: · Each missile carries 150 kilos of high explosive in its nose.
the rounded end part of a small object, especially something such as a nail or pin which also has a pointed end: head of: · There was a hole in the pipe, no bigger than the head of a matchstick.· I picked up a hammer and hit the head of the nail as hard as I could.
what you say when you give an example use this when you are giving an example: · There are lots of famous buildings in Kyoto, for example the Golden Pavilion and the Tyoanyi Temple.· There are some tasks which are your responsibility. For instance, it's up to you to dismantle furniture and take down curtains.
written use this when you are giving an example or a series of examples. In British English, people usually write eg ; in American English people usually write e.g.: · Make sure you eat foods that contain protein, e.g. meat, cheese, fish, milk, or eggs.· This course includes a study of basic language skills (eg speaking and listening).
especially written used when you want to give one or two typical examples of something but not all the examples that are possible: · It is difficult to get even basic foods such as sugar and bread.· People's ability to do the tests is influenced by factors such as age, sex, and ethnic background.
especially spoken used in spoken English when you are giving a example which is typical of what you mean: · We could cook something easy, like pasta.· We still haven't settled a number of problems, like who is going to be in charge here while I'm away.
spoken say this when you are talking about something and you want to give an example of a certain type of situation, person etc, in order to prove what you are saying is correct: · I can think of lots of people who got worse grades than you and still have good jobs. Take Julie.take somebody/something for example: · Take me for example. I've never relied on other people for help.
a particular person, situation etc that is a case in point , is a very good or typical example of what you have just mentioned: · Some birds have returned to England after once being extinct here. The return of the osprey is a case in point.· Some women have managed to achieve success in football. A case in point is Anne Spencer.
formal if you name a particular situation, person etc by way of illustration , you want to use them as a way of explaining what you mean: · Other countries have totally different laws on abortion. By way of illustration let us look at the cases of Germany and Japan.
if you say to name but a few after giving several examples of something, you mean that these are just a few examples of what you mean and there are many more: · So many industries have been hit in the recession. Steel, coal, construction, to name but a few.
certain to fail something that is pointless is unlikely to have a very useful or successful result, so it would be better not to do it or try it: · The argument was completely pointless.· Most people think the project is a pointless waste of money.pointless exercise: · Speculating like that was always a pointless exercise, but he did it nevertheless.it is pointless to do something: · It's pointless to take notes and then never look at them again.it is pointless doing something: · She decided it was pointless trying to work while her mind was on other things.
especially spoken something that is a waste of time is unlikely to achieve any useful result, so you would be wasting your time if you tried to do it: · Many people think that complaining about bad service is a waste of time.a complete/total waste of time: · These meetings are a complete waste of time. Nothing ever gets decided.it is a waste of time doing something: · It's a waste of time going to the doctor - he'll just tell you to get plenty of rest.
spoken say this when you think that it is useless to do something because you will not achieve anything useful by doing it: · "Why don't you try to explain things to him?" "There's no point, he never listens."· I was going to buy a new car, but what's the point when my old one's perfectly all right?there's no point (in) doing something: · There's no point getting a new carpet until the decorating's done.what's the point in/of doing something?: · What's the point of giving a signal when there are no other cars around to see it?
not having any chance at all of succeeding: · Attempts to clean up the environment are doomed unless businesses take a leading role.· Within a few months she realized that her marriage was doomed.doomed to failure: · If you refuse to provide any information to the user, then your computer program is doomed to failure.doomed from the start: · Their business venture was doomed from the start, as they did not have the necessary capital.
something that you try to make successful, although it seems very clear to other people that it cannot succeed: · At first it seemed the attempt to save the species was a lost cause.· The miners' strike of 1984 turned out to be a lost cause.
British an idea or plan that will definitely not be successful: · Everybody would prefer a lower rate of tax, but that that is a non-starter economically.· The project would have been a non-starter without the help of Judith Glyn.
a point on a scale that measures quantity or quality · When the temperature reaches a certain level the machine will switch off automatically.noise levels · Background noise levels at New York's J. F. Kennedy international airport are between 51-98 decibels.level of · The water is treated to reduce the levels of pollution in it.
: boiling/freezing/melting etc point the exact level at which something boils/freezes/melts etc: · The boiling point of water is 100 degrees Celsius.· By mixing metals it is possible to make alloys which are tougher and have a lower melting point than the individual metals.
if the number of something reaches the 1000/two million etc mark it reaches a particular level, especially a high level: · The average salary of players in the NHL is steadily climbing to the $1 million mark. hit the 1000/two million etc mark : · Unemployment hit the three million mark in the UK in 1981.
the main ideas in a speech, piece of writing etc the main ideas or the basic meaning of a speech, piece of writing etc: · I made a few notes of the main points I wanted to cover in the speech.· The following article explains four key points that all new investors should understand.
the general meaning of a speech, argument, piece of writing etc, without all the details: the gist of: · The gist of the article is that children should have more rights in deciding their own futures.get the gist (=understand the general meaning): · I couldn't hear everything they said but I got the gist.
the main aim or purpose of an argument, speech, or political action: · The whole thrust of the US policy was to isolate Cuba.· The thrust of the case is whether the federal law overrides the state ban.
the most important facts or ideas in a statement, for example in a description of events or a set of arguments or opinions: · When reduced to their essentials, most religions are not so different.essentials of: · She was always very quick to grasp the essentials of an opponent's argument.
the main meaning of something the main idea of an argument, discussion, statement etc that shows its general or most important meaning: the point of something: · The point of the story did not emerge until the end of the film.somebody's point: · What's your point? Do you think I'm not good enough for your daughter?miss the point (=not understand the main idea): · The talk was about symbolism in art -- Len missed the point and thought it was about painting techniques.the point is.... (=used for mentioning the most important thing): · The point is, you should have told me where you were going.come/get to the point (=to reach the most important part of what you want to say): · "I'll come straight to the point," said the doctor. "I think you are suffering from depression."
the main idea and meaning of something such as an article or a speech: the gist of something: · I don't know the whole story but this is the gist of it.get the gist (of something) (=understand the gist of something): · Read the article once through to get the gist of it.· Students are encouraged to read the text, getting the gist, then go deeper into the meaning.
the most important meaning of something such as an argument or piece of writing: the essence of something: · The essence of his argument is that human character is formed by society.
the main set of ideas involved in something such as an explanation, argument, or account of something: the drift of something: · The drift of his letter is that he wants to come back.catch/get/follow somebody's drift (=understand the basic idea of what someone is saying): · It was a complicated argument but I think I caught his drift.· I follow your drift, but I just don't believe it.
the most important message of an argument, explanation etc, especially when it consists of a set of connected ideas leading to a final answer or idea: the thrust of something: · It is difficult to argue with the thrust of Davidson's analysis of the situation.· The overall thrust of her argument was that women are still oppressed in all areas of life.
formal the most important ideas contained in an argument or piece of writing: the substance of something: · The substance of Marx's views is the same in both of these books.
old-fashioned in a pleasant way · They had met once on holiday, so they knew each other slightly.· She once called me a liar and I've never forgiven her.· I remember once it snowed on my birthday, and I was so excited.
spoken once: · I remember coming home from school one time and finding we'd been burgled.· One time we went out fishing on the lake at night.
use this to give an example of when something you are talking about happened, especially when it is a particularly interesting or extreme example: · On one occasion, she rang his home and a strange woman answered.· She had some pretty frightening experiences. On one occasion her jeep was hijacked by a group of armed soldiers.
at one time during a period of time, process, or event in the past: · I dieted for many years, and at one stage I weighed only 71 kg.· It was a terrible winter. At one stage all the roads to the village were blocked by snow.· At one stage in the match, he was trailing by three games, but he managed to fight back.
at one time during an activity or period of time in the past: · At one point in the interview, he seemed close to tears.· "You play the piano very well," I remember Mrs Saito remarking at one point.· I had several narrow escapes during the war, at one point just missing death when my plane was shot down.
on a day in the past - use this especially when the exact day does not matter and you are telling the story of what happened: · I was sitting eating my breakfast one day when the telephone rang.· One day when we had nothing else to do, we went down to the river for a swim.· He used to come and go, then one day he went away and never came back.
to be a part of something · The road was partly blocked by a fallen tree.· What he told us was only partly true.· He was educated partly in Glasgow and partly in London.partly because · The accident happened partly because we were having an argument in the car.
if something partially happens, it does not happen completely or does not include all of something: · The house was partially destroyed by the explosion.· The ice had partially melted and there was a pool of water on the table.· The advertising campaign was only partially successful.
: half-eaten/half-finished etc if something is half-eaten, half-finished etc, half of it has been eaten, finished etc: · There was a half-smoked cigarette in the ashtray.· "That's good," he said dully, putting down his half-eaten sandwich.· I found him sitting on his bed, half-dressed.· The houses were half-submerged by the flood water.
use this especially to say that you are only partly sure about something or that you only partly agree with or believe something: · "Who was he hiding from?" "I'm not completely sure."· I'm not entirely convinced that we have enough control over schools as it is.· "So, is everything clear?" "Not entirely."
use this to say that something is partly true but not completely true: · Doing well in exams is to some extent a matter of luck.· To a certain extent it was our own fault that we lost the contract.· His figures were correct - up to a point.
formal partly or in a limited way - used especially in discussions and arguments: · The situation has been improved to a degree in recent months.· Golding's novel is to some degree experimental in style.
formal if something happens in part because of something, it is partly caused by it: · They developed their ideas in part from important work by Paykel.· Although bad management was the major factor, the firm's problems were due in part to a fall-off in demand.
on one occasion in the past · She once called me a liar - I've never forgiven her.· Once, when I was a little boy, I found a gold watch on the beach.
informal on one occasion in the past: · One time we went out fishing on the lake at night.· Aileen came round to tea one time, and we did our homework together.
on a day, morning, or afternoon in the past - use this when it is not important to say exactly which day it is: · Then, one day he went away and never came back.· I was having my breakfast one morning when the telephone rang.· One day, when we had nothing else to do, we went for a swim in the river.
something that happened on one occasion happened once in the past, but is often typical of what usually happens: · He drinks far too much. On one occasion I saw him drink a whole bottle of vodka.· On one occasion I made the mistake of arriving at work late and my boss has never let me forget it.
if a particular situation existed at one stage during a period in the past, it existed, but only at that time: · It was a terrible winter. At one stage, we had to dig our way out of the house.· At one stage during the competition, it looked as though our team might win.· I went on a diet and at one stage I weighed only 71 kg.
if something happened, especially something interesting or important, at one point during an activity or period of time in the past, it happened then: · At one point in the interview Gorbachev admitted he had made serious mistakes.· "You play the piano very well," I remember Mrs Saito remarking at one point.
the exact place where something is or happens the exact place where something or someone is, especially in relation to other things or people: · Jessica moved to a position where she could see the stage better.· Bombs were dropped on the enemy position.· You can tell roughly what time it is by the sun's position.
a particular place on a line or on a surface, especially a place that is used for measuring distances, heights etc: · The river at this point is half a mile wide.· Soon they came to a point where the road divided.· Ward Hill, at over 700 feet, is the island's highest point.
the exact place where something is or happens: · People had left flowers at the spot where the police officer was killed.the exact/very/same etc spot: · The museum sits on the exact spot where gold was first discovered.· She agreed to meet him at the same spot the next evening.
written the exact place where something is or happens: · The exact location of the ship, which sank in 1857, is being kept secret.· A military spokesman would not reveal the exact location of the search area.· Molecular biologists have found the precise location of the gene.
what you want to achieve when you do something the reason you do or plan something, and the thing you want to achieve when you do it: · The games have an educational purpose.purpose of: · The purpose of the experiment is to find better ways of treating battlefield wounds.the main purpose (=the most important purpose): · The main purpose of the meeting is to discuss who will be in the team.somebody's purpose in doing something: · My purpose in writing this book was to draw attention to the problem of global warming.for the purpose of (doing) something: · There is no penalty if the quarterback deliberately throws the ball out of bounds for the purpose of stopping play.for this/that purpose: · Read up on starting a small business. Loans can be obtained for this purpose.
something you hope to achieve: · Increasing student awareness of the issue is one of our aims.political/business/economic etc aim: · Membership of NATO is one of the country's long-term political aims.the aim is to do something: · The organization's aims are to provide food for homeless people and help them find somewhere to live.· The aim was to enroll all children in schools close to their homes.aim of: · The aim of the bombers was to destroy public property and get maximum publicity.
the purpose of something that you are doing or planning - use this especially when someone does not understand what the purpose is: point of: · The point of the experiment is to show how this chemical reacts with water.the whole point (=exactly the purpose of doing something): · The whole point of this TV show is to get you to buy Simmons' exercise videos.see the point of something (=understand why someone does something): · I can't see the point of travelling all that way and then only staying for one day.miss the/somebody's point (=not understand why someone does something): · You're missing my point completely - I'm not talking about restructuring the departmentwhat's the point? (=use this when you think there is no good reason for something): · Too many of these kids think, "What's the point of going to college?"
the effect or result that you hope to achieve by doing something - use this especially when you are doubtful whether that effect or result can be achieved: · We make toys that are both fun and educational - at least that's the idea.the idea is to do something: · The idea of the centre was to provide a place where old people could go during the day.the idea behind something: · The idea behind the commercials is that reading is as cool and entertaining as their favorite bands.
formal the thing that someone is trying to achieve, especially in business or politics: · The report focused on three of the business's objectives.business/military/political objective: · State your business objectives clearly.the objective is to do something: · The objective of this computer game is to design a city.achieve an objective: · The President believes that all military objectives have been achieved.main/primary objective: · The company's main objective is to keep recyclable material out of landfills.
the intended result of a plan, action, or activity, especially when this may be difficult to achieve: the object is to do something: · In this game the object is to score as many points as you can in the time given.object of: · The object of the search was to find a small plane that has been missing for two days.the object of the exercise (=the object of whatever you are doing): · The object of the exercise is to keep kids in school, rather than let them leave without graduating.
what a person, organization, or country hopes to achieve in the future, even though this might take quite a long time: · School children have definite goals towards which they can work.the goal is to do something: · Her goal is to find a company willing to donate money for research.goal of: · The goal of the partnership is to improve his company's profit margin.reach/meet a goal: · The Red Cross has reached its goal of raising $1.6 million for relief.
the exact result that a person or organization intends to achieve by doing something, often the amount of money they want to get: · The target for the appeal is £20,000, all of which will go to children's charities.· Our target is the release of all political prisoners.meet/reach/achieve a target: · The government is struggling to reach its original target of $23 billion in spending cuts.
the result that a person or group is trying to achieve, especially when this is bad or dishonest: political/personal etc ends: · Racial tensions in Fiji were exaggerated for political ends by leaders of the opposition.the end does not justify the means (=the way that someone tries to achieve something is wrong, even if what they want to achieve is good): · The demonstrators' ends do not justify their means.
something someone says something that you say, for example about what you think or something that you have noticed: · What do you mean by that remark?· I'm fed up with your snide remarks.· Elliot had been accused of making racist remarks.remark about: · I ignored his rude remark about my clothes.remark on: · Some further remarks on this subject will be made in the next chapter.make a remark: · Mr Hill sat down and made a few remarks about the weather.casual/chance remark (=something that you say for no particular reason): · It was just a casual remark - I didn't mean anything by it.
something that you say or write, especially to give an opinion: · OK, that's what we are suggesting - does anyone have any comments?comment on/about: · He made some comment about my dress, then carried on reading his book.· Her comments on interest rates had little impact on financial markets.make a comment: · We were discussing her new movie, and Jill made some interesting comments about it.
: a strange/stupid/horrible etc thing to say a remark that is strange, stupid etc: · What an awful thing to say about your mother!· I know it's a terrible thing to say, but sometimes I wish I'd never been born.
something you say, that people had not thought about or discussed until you mentioned it: point about: · Michael's point about training is an interesting one.good point: · That's a good point, and we should take it into consideration.make a point (=say something in a discussion, which people had not thought of before): · In his speech, Marks made the point that far more people died from smoking tobacco than from taking drugs.
something that someone says or writes publicly in order to tell people what they intend to do, what their opinion is etc: · In a statement, the BBC admitted that it had given incorrect information.make a statement (=say something publicly): · The President will make a statement to the press this afternoon.
a public or official statement telling people what has happened or what will happen: · The announcement was heard by millions of radio listeners this morning.announcement of/about: · I read the announcement of her death in today's paper.make an announcement: · Silence, please. Mr Bennett is about to make an announcement.
an important official statement, especially about what a government or organization intends to do: declaration that: · They issued a declaration that it will be attempting to take over another three British companies.declaration of war/independence/intent etc: · On the 19th of July a declaration of war was delivered in Berlin.
a remark in which you say what you think or have noticed about something: observation that: · The inspector began his report with the observation that the school was a happy place.observation about: · I agree with your observations about the pricing of products.make an observation: · A tour of Washington DC inspired one visitor to make some interesting observations about the gap between the rich and the poor.
the points scored in a game or sport a unit you get when you achieve something during a game or competition: · Steve Jones is 15 points ahead.· Damon Hill leads the Formula 1 Championship, with 58 points from 6 races.
the number of points that the two teams or players have in a game: · What's the score?· The score at half-time was 12-18.final score (=the score at the end of the game): · The final score went up on the scoreboard, and the crowd let out a roar.
the point you get when you make the ball go into the net in sports such as football or hockey: · Goal! Right in the last minute, England have scored.get/score a goal: · Florin Raducioiu scored four goals, putting Romania in the lead.
especially British the final number of points at the end of a competition: · Turn to BBC1 for the latest football results.· D'you know the result of the Arsenal game?
the point you get in cricket or baseball: · The West Indies beat Australia by 273 runs.score/get/hit a run: · Camilli scored 936 runs in 12 major-league seasons.
the points you get when you play a sport a unit used to show what you have achieved in a sport or game: · Steve Jones is 15 points ahead.· Damon Hill led the Formula 1 Championship, with 58 points from 6 races.get/score a point: · We lost the game when the Giants scored 14 points in the last quarter.· In darts, you get 50 points for hitting the bullseye.
the point you get when you make the ball go into the net in sports such as football or hockey: · England's only goal came midway through the second half.score a goal: · Venturini has scored the first goal in each of the two US victories in the Olympics.get a goal: · Spurs got two goals in the last five minutes of the game.an own goal (=when a player sends the ball into the wrong net, and so scores a point for the other team): · We won, but only because of an 88th minute own goal from the other side.
the number of points that the two teams or players have in a game: · What's the score?· The score at half time was 12-18.final score (=the score at the end of the game): · After two hours and twenty minutes of play, the final score was 3-2.
a part of a subject that is being discussed or written about a fact, suggestion, detail etc that is part of a subject being considered, discussed, or written about: · There are a number of other points to be discussed before we finish.· The final point in the President's speech was the most controversial.· Make a list of the main points in the article.make a point (=get someone to understand your suggestion, argument etc): · Exactly what point are you trying to make, Nick?
one part of a subject, problem, etc or one particular way of considering the subject: · Women are interested in the car's technological aspects just as much as men are.aspect of: · We're focused on the financial, rather than social, aspects of the problem.· This book deals with the economic, social, and religious aspects of Egyptian society.
to talk about the subject you are supposed to be talking about to start talking about the subject you are supposed to be talking about or really want to talk about, especially after you have been talking about something else: · He chatted abut the weather for a while before coming to the point.· "We know that already," interrupted Steve impatiently. "Get to the point".get/come straight/right to the point (=get immediately to the point): · She came straight to the point. "When do you think you'll be able to pay me back?"· Well, gentlemen, let's get right to the point.
also keep to the point British to continue talking only about the subject you are supposed to be talking about, and not talk about things that are not connected with it: · Can we try, please, to stick to the point - we don't have much time.· Mike seems to be quite incapable of keeping to the point.
something that someone says or writes that is to the point is only about the subject they are supposed to be talking about, and not about anything else: · The chairman's speech was short and to the point.· Korean newspapers only have four pages, so stories have to be very much to the point.
to talk too much about a particular thing also keep on British especially spoken to keep talking or complaining about something, in a way that is annoying or boring: go on about: · I wish you'd stop going on about how expensive everything is.· Lucy keeps on about little things that happened in the past until I want to scream.go on and on (=keep talking for a long time): · He went on and on until we were all practically asleep.
to keep mentioning something in a way that other people find annoying: · Stop harping on the weather - we can't change it.harp on about: · If you harp on about their bad habits too long, the kids will just stop listening.
British /belabor the point American to express the same idea again and again with the intention of making it clear, but with the result that people get bored: · Everyone agrees with what you said - there's no need to belabor the point.· If the students aren't listening it may be because the teacher is labouring the point too much.
to talk to a group of people you are with, giving your opinions or telling a story in a way that does not let other people have a chance to talk - use this when you think the situation is slightly humorous: · Grandma was holding forth as usual, retelling all the old family stories.hold forth about/on: · Tom was in the corner, holding forth about the economic situation.· After a few drinks, he would hold forth for hours on government conspiracy theories.
at a particular time in the past · She thought back over her early married life; everything had been so different then.· They were living in the country then, on a farm.· These days it's OK for women to smoke in public, but then it was unheard of.then and only then (=not until that time) · Bob sat down and read the letter again slowly. Then and only then did it begin to sink in that Stella was really dead.just then (=at that exact moment) · I sat down at my desk and got out a pile of reports to read. Just then, the phone rang.
at a particular period of time in the past - use this especially when you are talking about what the situation was then as compared to the present time: · At that time, he was married to a woman called Jody.· I was offered a job in New York, but at the time I didn't want to move so far away from my family.· The accepted view at that time was that women should remain in the home and not go out to work.· I can't remember exactly what he said, but I do remember thinking it was very funny at the time.
at that time in the past - use this especially when you are comparing life in the past with life in the present: · We used to get paid £2 a week. That was a lot of money in those days.· In those days there was no proper road, just an old stony track through the woods.· Back then, most people left school at fourteen and started work.· I remember thinking, back then, that I would never get married.
at that exact time during a past event or situation: · Miles got up to make his speech, and at that point several of the guests quietly slipped out of the room.· I thought he was dead. At that point, everything seemed hopeless.
at the exact time when something happened or when someone did something - use this when describing past events or telling stories: · At that moment there was a knock on the door.· Fortunately, Jorge appeared at that moment and was able to help us load things into the van.just at that moment (=at that exact moment): · Just at that moment, the police arrived.
during a particular period of time in the past, although things were going to change or develop later: · At that stage I lacked the experience to apply for a management post.· At that stage in the inquiry, the police still hoped that Maria might be alive.
at a particular time in the future · Wait until you've had your dinner, then you can go out to play.by then · Just wait until July -- all the exams will be over by then.until then · We're not getting a new car until June, so this one will have to do us until then.· We'll probably see you again when we get to Budapest -- until then goodbye and good luck!then and only then (=not until then) · Both sides must forget about the past. Then and only then can there be peace.
at the exact moment during an event or process when something will happen: · At 7:45 the lights will go out in the hall, and at that point all the actors will move into their positions on the stage.
at that particular time during a series of events: · The exams will be finished by the end of June. At that stage you can make a decision about which subjects to study next year.
before a particular time actually arrives: · I have to go at 6 pm, but by that time we should have got through most of the work.by which time: · The Connellys go to Africa in April, by which time they hope to have sold their house.
a time when something happens a time when someone does something or something happens -- use this especially to talk about something that happens more than once: · Do you remember that time Tim got really drunk at Sarah's party?· Play it really loud this time.the only/same/last etc time: · The last time we ate meat was at Thanksgiving.· The only time I've seen him with a girl was that party at Mike's place.· Give us a call next time you're in town.· That was around the same time that I met Linda.the first/second/third etc time: · Is this the first time you've played pool?· Sandra, that's the third time I've asked you to keep quiet.· Alex won the 100 metres for the fifth time in a row (=he won five times, and no one else won the race in between).four/six/several etc times: · This is my favourite film - I've seen it five times.· It's silly -- I've met him several times, but I can never remember his name.a number of times formal (=use this to say something happened several times): · She's been to Greece a number of times.· I've heard Jessie play a number of times, and I think he's great.every/each time: · Every time I met her, she asked me about the children.time when: · Do you remember the time when Dad lost the car keys?
formal a time when something happens: on one/that etc occasion: · The witness said that on both occasions he noticed Davis because of his heavily tattooed arms.· On one occasion, Anna fainted while out shopping with friends.· She had met Zahid on a previous occasion.on numerous/several occasions (=use this to emphasize that something happened many times): · I've suggested that she should move on numerous occasions, but she never takes any notice.· I remember Michael sleeping in your room on several occasions and mom not knowing about it.
an exact time when something happens, during a longer process or series of events: · The play went well, apart from one embarrassing moment when I dropped a cup.· At several points during the meeting, Adler threatened to walk out.· My most special moment with dad was when I was announced as the winner of Junior Beauty Contest.moment/point in time: · At that precise moment in time, Binh walked in.
when there are several different opinions about something: it is debatable whether · It is debatable whether these alternative medical treatments actually work.a debatable point · Whether or not the government was right to arrest the protesters is an extremely debatable point.
something that is questionable seems doubtful and is likely to be wrong or untrue: · The conclusions of the survey are questionable because the research was based on a very small sample of people.it is questionable whether: · It is questionable whether the advertisements will increase sales.
something that is open to question or open to debate seems doubtful and needs to be checked or discussed: · Many people feel that the safety of the drug is now open to question.· Just why the guerrillas decided to shoot down the unarmed plane remains open to debate.it is open to question/debate whether: · It is open to debate whether the new government is any better than the old one.
something that different people have different opinions about: · I'm not sure that bringing in computers has made our job easier. It's a moot point.· Whether or not increasing taxes will result in a fairer society remains a moot point.
to not understand something correctly to think that someone means one thing when in fact they mean something else: · I think she misunderstood you.· I'm sorry, I must have misunderstood.· According to Bennett, you misunderstood the reason you were dropped from the list.
a problem caused when someone does not understand something correctly: · There seems to have been a misunderstanding. I didn't order steak.· Cultural differences between people from different countries can sometimes lead to misunderstandings.
to not understand the true meaning of someone's actions or words, so that you believe something that is not in fact true: · Your friendliness could easily be misinterpreted.· A lot of people misinterpreted what I was saying, and have called me a racist.
to wrongly believe that someone's actions show that they have a particular opinion or feeling: · Unfortunately, we misread the situation and lost a lot of sales.· The intelligence community was criticized for misreading Iraq's intentions.
if you miss the point , you think you understand what someone says or what is important about a situation, but in fact you are wrong: · I soon realised that he had completely missed the point.· He's so caught up in the rules that he's missing the point of the game, which is just to have fun.
to be offended or upset by a remark that was not intended to offend or upset you, because you understood it wrongly: · Don't tell Simon that -- he might take it the wrong way.· No, that's not what I meant. You take everything the wrong way.don't take this the wrong way (=say this when you want to give advice or ask something that you think might offend someone): · Don't take this the wrong way, but could I stay at your place tonight?
British an informal expression meaning to make a mistake about one part of something that you are told, so that you understand the rest of it in completely the wrong way: · Maybe I got the wrong end of the stick. I thought she was leaving him, not the other way round.
if two people are at cross-purposes , each of them thinks that they understand what the other is talking about, when in fact they are talking about two different things: · I think we're at cross purposes -- I'm talking about John, not Nigel.
spoken say this when you do not want someone to understand something wrongly or be upset by what you say: · I like Jenny, don't get me wrong, but I do think she acts a little childishly at times.· Don't get me wrong, I love my family, I just don't want to be with them all the time.
British spoken to suddenly be unable to understand what is happening in a situation, especially when people expect you to understand and deal with it: · In the past few days the President seems to have completely lost the plot.
ways of asking or mentioning when something happened or will happen · When are you leaving for Norway?· When did you last have something to eat?· Do you know when the concert will be held?· I can't remember when I bought this.
exactly when: · What time is dinner?· What time did you get in last night?· What time do you usually get home from work?· I don't know what time she's coming home.
at what particular time during a process, situation, or activity: · At what point did you try to stop the fight?· At what point did you realize that your book would never be published?· I'm not sure at what point he began to suspect the truth.
WORD SETSalternator, nounarc, nounblow, verbcapacitor, nouncathode, nouncell, nouncharge, nouncharge, verbcharger, nouncircuit, nouncircuit board, nouncircuit breaker, nouncircuitry, nouncoil, nouncondenser, nounconnection, nouncontact, nouncord, nouncordless, adjectivecurrent, nounDC, dimmer, noundirect current, noundischarge, verbdischarge, nounE, earth, nounearth, verbelectric, adjectiveelectrician, nounelectricity, nounelectrics, nounelectrode, nounelectronic, adjectiveelectronics, nounfuel cell, nounfuse, verbfuse box, nounfused, adjectivegrid, nounlive, adjectivelive wire, nounmagic eye, nounmagneto, nounnegative, adjectiveneutral, adjectivenoise, nounoscillate, verboscillator, nounoutlet, nounphotoelectric, adjectivephotoelectric cell, nounpin, nounplug, nounpoint, nounpre-set, adjectiveprinted circuit, nounprogramme, nounprogramme, verbpulse, nounremote control, nounresistance, nounresistor, nounscan, verbscanner, nounshort, nounshort, verbshort circuit, nounshort-circuit, verbsocket, nounsolid-state, adjectivesonar, nounsuperconductivity, nounsuperconductor, nounterminal, nountime switch, nountoggle switch, nountorch, nountransformer, nountransistor, nounvacuum tube, nounvalve, nounW, wire, nounwiring, nounzapper, noun
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY Meaning 1adjectives
They argued the point (=discussed it) for hours without reaching a conclusion. an assembly point (=a place where people go in a particular situation) Relations between the two countries have almost reached boiling point. The firm should reach breakeven point after one year. The issue of hunting is a source of contention. a debatable point Swindon were six points down at one stage. We stayed up discussing the finer points of Marxist theory. Jake was pointing a gun at the door. They’ve just reached the halfway stage of the project. Let me give an example to illustrate the point. Nadal was leading by two sets. The government lost by one vote. The Communist candidate lost by a whisker (=a very small amount). ‘Any minus points?’ ‘Well, the engine is rather noisy.’ The price includes travel from your local pick-up point in the UK to your hotel in Paris. Another of the Beach Club’s plus points is that it’s right in the middle of town. He refused point-blank to identify his accomplices. a point-blank refusal The bullet was fired at point-blank range. He decided it was time to press his point home. As you so rightly pointed out, things are getting worse. The number of summer tourists in the area has reached saturation point. He has scored 12 goals so far this season. I can’t see the point of (=I do not understand the reason for) spending so much money on a car. Do you see the point I’m making (=do you understand what I’m trying to say)? As yet, there are few signposts pointing to success. I think I should get straight to the point. This meeting is beginning to stray from the point. We’ll stretch a point (=allow a rule to be broken) and let the baby travel free this time. United were a goal up at half time. Be honest about your weak points (=your faults or the things you do not do well). There are some weak points in her argument.
· I think that’s a very good point.
· He has made an interesting point.
· That’s an important point to bear in mind.
· He’s making a joke but there is a serious point there as well.
· She raised a number of valid points.
· I’d like to make one further general point.
· Kevin Phillips made a similar point in his 1993 book, ‘Boiling Point’.
· Finally, I will summarise the main points of this chapter.
· There is one final point I would like to make.
verbs· He makes the point that predicting behaviour is not easy.
(=make people understand it)· I think we got our point across.
(=mention it)· I was going to raise that point.
· A simple example will illustrate the point.
(=prove that what you say is right)· He was determined to prove his point.
· I’m sorry, I don’t understand your point.
(=understand or agree with it)· OK, I take your point. But it’s not that easy.
(=have made a good point)· Maybe she has a point.
British English, belabor the point American English (=keep saying something)· I don’t wish to labour the point, but why didn’t you just tell me?
(=make it clearer)· Could you clarify a couple of points for me?
phrases (=used to say to someone that you accept what they say)· All right, point taken – I should have asked you first.
(=the small details)· I’m afraid I don’t understand the finer points of the game.
Meaning 2phrases· The point is that going by bus would be a lot cheaper.
· That’s the point. She didn’t tell us what was going on.
· We'd earn a lot of money, but that's not the point.
(=be not the most important thing to consider)· He's the best person for the job so his age is beside the point.
(=what is more important)· When did she leave, and, more to the point, why?
verbs (=talk about the most important thing immediately)· I haven't got much time so let's get straight to the point.
(=understand it)· He didn’t get the point at first.
(=not understand it)· I don't know why but Mel always seems to miss the point.
Meaning 5verbs· Some couples reach a point where divorce is the only solution.
· You get to the point where ordinary things like climbing stairs are difficult.
(=be or happen at a particular time in the development of something)· The day of the accident marked a turning point in Kenny’s life.
ADJECTIVES/NOUN + point· Winning the World Championship was the high point of my career.
· She helped me when I was at a low point in my life.
· The following recipes are a good starting point for making your own bread.
(=the time when an important change starts, especially an improvement)· A turning point in the history of the republic came in 1358.
(=the point at which a situation becomes extremely serious)· The tensions within the country have reached crisis point.
(=a time when someone or something can no longer deal with something)· Our resources are stretched to breaking point.
(=a time when something is completely full)· The hospital was full to bursting point.
(=a time when no more can be added to something)· Is the market for computer games reaching saturation point?
phrases (=at a time in the past)· At one point I was thinking of studying physics.
· Over half the population suffers from back pain at some point in their lives.
· I’m not prepared at this point to make any decision.
formal (=used especially in official speeches, announcements etc)· It would be wrong to comment at this point in time.
(=until a stage is reached or is near)· British industry was driven to the point of collapse.
· There comes a point where you have to accept defeat.
Meaning 6adjectives· Every system has its good points and its drawbacks.
· What would you say are Natalie’s bad points?
(=something that they are good at)· Mathematics was never my strong point.
(=something that they are not good at)· Be honest about assessing your weak points.
British English (=an advantage or good feature)· The airline’s outstanding safety record is a major plus point.
· Underfloor heating has a lot of positive points.
· A few negative points should be mentioned.
(=a quality or feature that makes people want to buy something)· The house's main selling point is its beautiful garden.
(=small details about the qualities or features of something)· I'm afraid I'm not interested in the finer points of cars.
Meaning 7verbs (=especially in games such as football, baseball, cricket etc)· The Kiwis scored 206 points in their three matches.
(=especially in games such as tennis, where the ball goes back and forth between competitors)· I didn't win a single point in my first few games.
informal (=score a point)· Our aim is to get as many points as possible.
· If he’s got the answer wrong, he loses 250 points.
· I was awarded 17 points out of 20.
phrases· We only lost by two points.
(=win or lose a fight because of the judges’ decision)· He was knocked down twice, before losing on points.
British English:· The teams finished level on points.
COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES They argued the point (=discussed it) for hours without reaching a conclusion. an assembly point (=a place where people go in a particular situation) (=say that someone is responsible for something bad)· I couldn’t believe it when they started pointing the finger of blame at me.
Relations between the two countries have almost reached boiling point. The firm should reach breakeven point after one year.· A group of Japanese tourists were pointing their cameras at the cathedral.
· She had a narrow face and a pointed chin.
(=the marks that show you north, south, east etc)· She was teaching the children the points of the compass.
(=make you decide that something is true)· All the data led to only one conclusion.
The issue of hunting is a source of contention. (=the point at which a problem becomes a crisis)· Events were now reaching crisis point.
· This was a crucial point in our relationship.
(=the date etc when you stop doing something) The cut-off date for registration is July 2.
The cut-off date for registration is July 2. a debatable point (=the place where you leave from)· Luxor is one departure point for boat trips down the Nile.
(=a particular thing that people disagree about)· A point of disagreement between the two parties concerns the future of nuclear power.
Swindon were six points down at one stage.· The dog has short pointy ears.
(=a place where people can enter a country)· The 2,000 mile border is the main entry point into the country for illegal aliens.
· The essential point is that all children should have an equal opportunity to study.
We stayed up discussing the finer points of Marxist theory. Jake was pointing a gun at the door. They’ve just reached the halfway stage of the project. (=something you feel you must do because of your moral beliefs)· To my mum, paying bills on time is a point of honour.
Let me give an example to illustrate the point.· The environment became a key issue during the election.
Nadal was leading by two sets. (=a lead of a specific amount)· Goals by Keane and Lennon gave Tottenham a two-goal lead.
The government lost by one vote. The Communist candidate lost by a whisker (=a very small amount). ‘Any minus points?’ ‘Well, the engine is rather noisy.’ (=they feel very nervous or worried)· Her nerves were stretched almost to breaking point as she waited.
(=0.1, 0.2 etc)
(=a place from where you can observe something)· The peak of the mountain was a natural location for an observation post.
(=used to say that something has stopped being a normal interest and become an extreme one)· She was protective of her children, to the point of obsession.
(=one percent)· The party increased its share of the vote by almost 4 percentage points.
The price includes travel from your local pick-up point in the UK to your hotel in Paris. Another of the Beach Club’s plus points is that it’s right in the middle of town. He refused point-blank to identify his accomplices. a point-blank refusal The bullet was fired at point-blank range.· Saving energy in your home is fairly easy from a practical point of view.
· From a financial point of view, the concert was a disaster.
· This book was the first to study language from a scientific point of view.
· It's a fascinating case, from a legal point of view.
· From the political point of view, it was important that the country showed it was adhering to the treaty.
· The system is seriously flawed from a security point of view.
He decided it was time to press his point home.· To prove her point, Dr Hurdal showed her audience a scan of a patient’s brain.
· You should put that point to the Chancellor.
· I’ve reached the point in my life where I need a new challenge.
(=immediate, direct, and without a reason)· This point-blank refusal to discuss the issue enraged him.
(=directly and without explanation)· I refused point-blank to let him in.
As you so rightly pointed out, things are getting worse. The number of summer tourists in the area has reached saturation point. He has scored 12 goals so far this season. I can’t see the point of (=I do not understand the reason for) spending so much money on a car. Do you see the point I’m making (=do you understand what I’m trying to say)? As yet, there are few signposts pointing to success. I think I should get straight to the point. This meeting is beginning to stray from the point.· This point needs to be stressed.
We’ll stretch a point (=allow a rule to be broken) and let the baby travel free this time. (=used to say that you accept someone’s opinion)
United were a goal up at half time.· I think that's a valid point.
Be honest about your weak points (=your faults or the things you do not do well). There are some weak points in her argument.· We won by 23 points.
· The team had a nine-point win over Arizona.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADJECTIVE· They're just the people to spot the finer points of ornithology, are they?· The Puritans had no more interest in astronomy or physics than in the fine points of Catholic theology.· Sources say most things work but hundreds of fine points have to be checked.· Perhaps then they can take in the fine points the lessons of our own lives offer.· Sometimes they were right, news crews rarely had the time or the inclination to pursue the finer points.· However, such fine points of genealogical accuracy are never what matter to the family members who tell such stories.· His elucidation of the finer points of betting is also excellent.· At least he would understand the fine points of its design.
· The effect of reinstatement would be dramatic, bringing back numerous fine buildings as focal points in the street scene.· Eight lesbians who gather at a local bar are the focal point of this comedy, directed by Marita Giovani.· The municipal gallery, though, likely will become the focal point for local artists from now on.· A focal point is the inviting, good-sized pool where you can cool off from the heat of the sun.· Neither was society the focal point of the Orphic mysteries.· It is the focal point of a permanent campaign to give independence through personal transport to as many people as possible.
· That is just the intensification, the high point of an ongoing process.· Despite this tragedy, she graduated with the second highest grade point average in her high school.· Continued from page 6 Olympia is also the high point for twenty of our leading young riders.· His engagement to Nora Cushing had been the high point of her life.· Collectively, they were worth over £2.8 billion at their high point.· When your body temperature reaches its highest point, your inner clock reads 12: 00 biological time.· The number fell from the high point of 516 in 1985 to 409 in 1986.· Even if the infectivity is as high as point nine nine, any pocket of infection will die out quite fast.
· The prime minister: My hon. Friend has put his finger on an important point.· In the early stages, the baby's mouth is an important point of contact with the world.· The important point is to adopt a system and then stick to it, applying it consistently.· An important point is that these large-scale convection cells fit in with the dimensions of plates.· The important point to note as you follow my progress is just how easy it is and how flexible.· But the important point about this manoeuvring is how essentially low-key it was.· The reality was that provincial reformers generally took the ideological initiative away from London on this important point.
· Combinations of wool and nylon are usual, with loop-stitching at key points.· One solution is for Dorman Oil to summarize key points in employee training sessions that incorporate multimedia and other technologies.· The main key points are the patient's head, shoulder girdle, spine and pelvis.· And she found herself at key points in her relationship yelling at her financially ambitious partner because they had such different aspirations.· What are the key points in the extract?· Even within areas of consensus, there are key points of roiling partisan controversy.· Are you a fast reader with the ability to retain the key points?· The key point of contention is how much change is prudent in the military, and how rapid that change should be.
· And the lowest of low points was the use of five captains in seven Tests in 1988-89.· From that low point, Mitterrand started his long climb to power.· In particular, the high and low points on the line should be noted and investigated for possible sighting markers.· From this low point, things got worse.· In large organizations, the number of roadblocks and low points can seem infinite, particularly when something new is being tried.· The index is now at its lowest point since June, when it was a negative 17. 4.· The market is likely to continue drifting down and may reach a low point on Friday.· The lowest point came a year ago, when the staff graduated and the magazine disappeared.
· The main points for debate could then be circulated to panel members and the course team before the event.· Reports and proposals of 2-5 pages: List the main points for the entire document.· However, the main point of interest is the unintended learning outcomes of such questions as these.· The main point is that we can do nothing to change matters.· The main point of contention now is not whether, but how long a scaled-down force should remain.· Perhaps such arguments are beside the main point, which is to cover the natural monopoly case.· Although we can look at expenditure patterns in a number of different ways three main points are evident.
· And as was evident early on in the match, she relied on her strong points to get into a rhythm.· One additional device is a spectrometer to study the infrared spectra of strong point sources.· Very generous pupil - teacher ratios is a feature that prep schools use as a strong selling point to parents.· For one thing, woodwork was not his strong point.· Nearly every organization requires accounts or finance clerks, so if mathematics is your strong point it is something to think about.· A short summary of what you regard as your strong points makes an excellent final paragraph to distinguish you from other candidates.· Animation Shop isn't this package's strong point and Photoshop's ImageReady application is a whole lot more powerful.· On balance, however, the predator/prey theory of dinosaur endothermy does seem to be one of Bakker's stronger points.
· It proved a turning point in the war leading to Lincoln emancipation proclamation liberating the slaves.· At every turning point they put a greater distance between each other.· These turning points apart, he was also an addictive non-political speaker.· Crises often mark turning points in overall patterns of policy development, because the consequences of alternative decisions can be momentous.· For Brailsford, who had a tendency to overstate his case, this marked a decisive turning point in world history.· As with many other issues, the 1940s marked a turning point in food production.· The battle was a turning point in Northumbrian fortunes.
· The whole point of the legal process is to get a decisive determination which will end the dispute in question.· The round slices were much easier to use in a toaster, which was the whole point of the exercise.· Now the whole point of this raid is speed.· His real name is Markham-or, as Blue sounds it out to himself, mark him-and that is the whole point.· The whole point of radio communications is the very versatility and freedom associated with its use.· I mean, that was, in a way, the whole point.· The whole point about chaos is that it roars down on you when you least expect it, like a motorcycle messenger.· As if the whole point of the Salomon system were simply to see who wilted under the pressure and who did not.
NOUN· The yield on the five-year 5. 875 percent note rose 7 basis points to 4. 64 percent.· The yield on the two-year gilt fell 2 basis points to 6. 30 percent.· The notes, which are noncallable for one year, were priced to yield 69 basis points above comparable Treasurys.· The bonds will be priced to yield 75 basis points above the 7 percent gilt due 2001.· The bonds, which are noncallable for three months, were priced at a spread of 59 basis points above Treasurys.
· Finally, in the election itself Reagan led Carter by ten percentage points.· The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus five percentage points.· Sept. 14: The Bundesbank cuts the Lombard rate by 0.25 percentage points and the discount rate by 0.5 percentage points.· Polls show his lead over Dole ranging from 5 to 20 percentage points.· In relation to the rest of the country, however, the share of the top six cities fell by 2.5 percentage points.· In January, polls showed Dole was leading his nearest rival by 23 percentage points.· Polls show Peres leading by about 5 percentage points.
· Carrying spare batteries could be a cheaper option to fast charging and all chargers rely on a power point anyway.· Radiator. Power point. access to insulated roof space with light.· But it is not to this distinction that the theory of the separation of powers points.· Copper had to then come out of his box to be near to a power point.· Secondary double glazed windows with lovely open outlook over the golf course. power points.· Tiled feature fireplace. Power points.· Vinyl clad floor. Power points.· Beware of anything that looks like a do-it-yourself job - crooked power points, for example.
· It is equally correct and sometimes more useful to view demand from the reference point of quantity.· This was done by using the pylorus and the anatomical antrum-corpus boundary as reference points.· I concentrated on the reference points and on keeping one or two rotor diameters away from the other ship.· But he remained a constant reference point among those concerned about the course the nation was taking.· They establish reference points and reference lines.· We are left with a play on signs which has no ultimate reference point other than the commodity.· This team has a reference point.
· The starting point is those aims which depend heavily on the particular contribution of DHAs.· This requires a re-examination of such chairs as please my eye and try to come with a starting point.· The truth was somewhere at the end of the line and the first facts were a kind of starting point.· For obvious reasons she has chosen Stamford Hill as her starting point.· Adorno offers one starting point for such a history.· It was a fairly preposterous starting point, but there was nothing else to go on.· That is the starting point for existentialism.· The analogy has its limitations, but is a valuable starting point.
· She took refuge behind an angel's wings and, from this vantage point, spied upon her family.· And I know, from the sobering vantage point of midlife, that she will never recover.· Skarsnik, watching from his vantage point on the mountain slopes, saw his army waver.· What from the harbor looks solemn takes on a carnivalesque air when seen from a closer vantage point.· Our vantage point provided a proper perspective of the immense scale of this Himalayan giant.· He painted the gorge; he painted the rapids; he painted the Whirlpool from every vantage point.· From my second-floor vantage point I could see my classmates as they tumbled out into the quad playing catch with my shoes.· From your current vantage point, you are well positioned to see how alcohol can get at these pain fibers.
VERB· Last year, Harris averaged 16 points in 31 starts after Jackson was lost for the season.· In 1995-96, he averaged seven points over 51 games, missing 23 games with a sprained ankle.· Davis averaged 14. 2 points and 9. 5 rebounds as a senior and made 55 percent of his shots.· Last year, he averaged 14. 2 points in March and 9. 4 the rest of the year.· The strongest choice appeared to be Ceballos, averaging 23. 4 points and 7. 3 rebounds per game.· He has played in only 53 games this season and is averaging 9. 8 points and 3. 2 rebounds.· The former Temple star averaged 14 points and nearly 4 rebounds a game while leading the club with 2. 5 steals.· He was averaging 6. 4 points per game and his 30 of 83 3-pointers ranked second on the team.
· Sydney: Continued activity in the banking sector helped the All Ordinaries index to close 7.4 points higher at 1,743.4.· The benchmark 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average closed the session 201.88 points down, or 1.51 percent, at 12,681.66.· But dealers' nerves soon failed and the index fell back to close 9.5 points lower at 2719.7.· The 225-share Nikkei index, meanwhile, continued its recent slide, closing down 122 points at 17, 358. 16.· The Footsie closed just 2.3 points higher at 2,840.0.· It closed 30.5 points lower at 2,247.0.· It closed 30.5 points down at 2,281.6, its lowest level for ten weeks.· Finally, in transition to the next chapter, we close with an awkward point about truth.
· One of the fastest ways to list is simply to drop your points on the page, numbering as you go.· After 10 days and three predictable victories they were promoted, thanks to Woking dropping a point.· For every day I stayed in Rochester, my intelligence quotient dropped another ten points.· The Conservatives are down one point to 34 %, and the Liberal Democrats have dropped three points to 13 %.· If the trough is 25 percent below that, the Dow will drop 1, 721 points.· The party's share of vote was squeezed, dropping five points from 1987 to 18 percent.· The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 67. 55 points to 5130. 13 yesterday.
· Andy Marsh's Zambezi article illustrates this point well.· Both Kemp and Gore referred to real life people to illustrate their points.· Significantly, your photograph alongside Coun Williams' letter, illustrates this point more eloquently than words.· To illustrate the point, I call it the Aeroflot Syndrome.· A few examples will suffice to illustrate the point.· The story may have been to illustrate her point.· The development of the gut illustrates the point.· The diagram below illustrates this point.
· A recent report by borough councillor and community health council chairwoman Eleanor Young made the point clearly.· We have referred to Piaget to make or reinforce a point about teaching.· It is perhaps important to redress the rather gloomy tone which has crept into this section, by making two points.· Today the manager of personnel makes a point of sitting next to his old friend on the daily commuter train.· It could make that the central point of its election manifesto if it is so profoundly excited by it.· He cited their new-found authority to do their own work scheduling to make his point.· Mr. Redwood My hon. Friend makes his point extremely well.· She said she always made a point to stay above the fray and concentrate on her work.
· Alas, the critics were liable to miss the point or deliberately find fault with it.· We had missed the release point because of the cloud and would have to try again.· Both these reactions miss the point.· And so on and so on, the critiques having merit but missing the point.· Yet to focus on the facts is to miss the point.· The sad fact is that we are amazingly persistent at missing the point.· This, however, rather missed the point, since even cheap fares serve little purpose if there are no trains.· But they were missing the entire point.
· It proved a turning point in the war leading to Lincoln emancipation proclamation liberating the slaves.· So I think I proved my point.· He does not try to prove points one way or the other, but he does ask meaningful and relevant questions.· If this is the case, you should be prepared to prove your point and present a cost-effective alternative.· A mixture of consultation and internal management control might well prove a better starting point.· We know of no surveys that either prove or disprove this point.· The event was to prove the turning point of the battle.· The many examples of that provided in these pages help to prove the point.
· We may reach a point where the public costs of city life have to be greater than the private.· Few sites that I visited had reached a point where they clearly would survive if these extra start-up funds disappeared.· Can they reach point B, thereby preserving their privileged position as insiders?· Many organizations may never reach this point, and certainly no date can be fixed in its regard.· Now 25, Jane does not pretend to have reached the point where she is back enjoying her golf.· This convinced him he had to reach the point where there was no turning back.· But before we reached that point, we might have other problems.· Significant excretion of solute-free water can not occur unless significant amounts of solute and water reach this point.
· He scored just 10 points but had only two assists, being ineffective as a shooter and playmaker.· Duncan fouled out with 1: 51 left after scoring eight points and grabbing 13 rebounds.· The Lakers shot 53 percent, scored 29 points off turnovers and took an embarrassingly easy 124-107 decision.· Some pundits argued that he was simply trying to score points against the outgoing government.· At halftime, B has scored thirteen points and is 100 per-cent from the floor.· He had scored four points until he made successive three-point baskets late in the game.· Payton scored six straight points as Seattle overcame a 99-93 deficit.
· Training from starting points which are different towards an end which is uniform is not a unique aspect of voluntary partnership.· The paradox was that Ryan's starting point was no different from that of coaches in the prosperous days of the Seventies.· These recipes are simply a starting point and provide the fundamentals.· So the pattern will start at the right point cam with stitch number 18 of the pattern.· Mason, focused on convincing potential business users to consider Explorer as a starting point for connecting to the Internet.· Should I pay for the starting point?· A monistic starting point for the cosmos requires an explanation to account for the variety and multiplicity in the cosmos.
· Supreme Court, was a turning point for Mrs Graham and the newspaper.· The question is whether it is a turning point and the down-slide of Peres.· It was to be something of a turning point.· It was a historic turning point.· The year 1949 was his turning point.· And both became the turning points of the games.· Denis Healey's acceptance of International Monetary Fund-imposed cuts in public expenditure in 1976 was the turning point.· Still turning this last point over in his mind, Blue decides to buy the book.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRY► boiling point/freezing point/melting point etc► when/if it comes to the point► not to put too fine a point on it► the point► pointsPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► two points/five seconds etc adrift (of somebody)► get/score/earn Brownie points► (that’s a) good idea/point/question
- The dam project has reached the point of no return.
- By Joshua's time they had reached the point of no return.
- Foo was beyond the point of no return.
- In a few more moments this love scene would have reached the point of no return.
- Relationships with the union beyond the point of no return?
- Sailmaking We've reached the point of no return!
- Suddenly it passed the point of no return and plunged downwards.
- The fire is the point of no return for the Gaucis.
- The principal message conveyed by the leadership was that the Three Gorges project had reached the point of no return.
- In each case the point of departure is a surface-syntax input.
- Irigaray has offered some clues, but she takes the extreme of the feminine position as her point of departure.
- Still, the police continued their efforts independently, distributing her picture to all points of departure from the country.
- The answer: only a point of departure.
- The boat would then sail in a circle, dragging the net, until it returned to the point of departure.
- The problem is an acute one in the case of Britain, given the absence of any clear point of departure.
- The themes themselves dictate what is studied; they provide points of departure for the curriculum.
- And I was on the point of telling you about Gwendoline.
- For a second she was on the point of executing Ace for insubordination.
- He thought she might be on the point of offering him a nip of whisky but she did not go that far.
- He was on the point of saying so when he despaired.
- Now Propane is on the point of pulling out because of insufficient interest.
- She was on the point of saying something but changed her mind.
- This was important, for Bonar Law's health was on the point of finally breaking up.
- That's true, up to a point.
- And, up to a point, the conventional wisdom is right.
- I could be perfectly reasonable up to a point, but Cynthia Kay had gone too far.
- Planning may be useful, but only up to a point.
- She was, up to a point.
- That is true, but only up to a point.
- The curriculum would follow the classical model, though only up to a point.
- The snorer knows that actual suffering is the lot of some one near and, up to a point, dear.
- Korean newspapers only have four pages, so stories have to be very much to the point.
- The chairman's speech was short and to the point.
- And despite the censorship, some letters were bold to the point of foolhardy.
- And more to the point, why should they be enforced?
- Both of them noticed with shock how alarmingly thin she was, frail to the point of vanishing.
- But any bill that gets signed by President Clinton will probably be watered down to the point that it is meaningless.
- Frankly, dear readers, I was getting bored waiting for the graphs to get to the point of maximum excitement.
- It got to the point that some of the burgers were served straight from the freezer, raw!
- More to the point, his diaries took a little longer to come out - 122 years after his death.
- Bridget made a point of thanking each of us for the gift.
- He makes a point of letting his congregation know he takes care of his children.
- He seemed to make a point of taking two steps backward for every one step forward.
- Hitachi is expected to make a point of integration, management and directory synchronisation.
- It's a spectacular scene and I make a point of leaving my dictation and watching through the curtains each evening.
- Kramer braced and made a point of looking tough and bored.
- They'd made a point of it.
- They made a point of recruiting fledgling Latino engineers into the organization.
- Many people believe surgery is the only answer. In point of fact, a change in diet is often enough.
- Comrade Preobrazhensky preaches abstraction from politics but in point of fact, apart from politics, there is absolutely nothing in the work.
- Congar had in point of fact expressed himself cautiously enough, yet several of his books were proscribed.
- It was clearly something more than a mere mortal storm and in point of fact Juno was back of it.
- This has, in point of fact, always struck me as behaviour verging on the pathological.
- What do I say, in point of fact?
- There is no need to belabour the point here.
- It's unrealistic, but that's beside the point - it's just good entertainment.
- But the pedigree of this idea is beside the point.
- But to criticize Mr Hall's production as an exercise in fuddy-duddy Shakespeare is beside the point.
- He may manufacture these life units as required and he may simply have a given supply: that is beside the point.
- She had come to no harm, but that was beside the point.
- This semantic distinction is beside the point; the special admissions program is undeniably a classification based on race and ethnic back-ground.
- What the outcome of seeing him might be is beside the point.
- Barthez escaped with a yellow card despite clearly kicking Ian Harte to concede a penalty.
- But as Saracens consistently conceded penalties, Humphreys accepted the points on offer.
- Chiddingfold should have taken the lead after five minutes when Rob Madgwick conceded a penalty for a trip.
- Hitchcock has yet to concede a goal since stepping in for Dave Beasant.
- Liverpool can not afford to concede a goal tonight-and James has yet to keep a clean sheet.
- It's difficult to find a point of contact between theory and practice.
- The new service center will serve as the single point of contact for general customer inquiries.
- I have spoken of the point of contact but with the proper grip it will be much easier.
- If you bought mail order, then the first point of contact is the software house or importer concerned.
- In the early stages, the baby's mouth is an important point of contact with the world.
- It also reduced friction at the point of contact.
- The parties are no longer the chief point of contact between the electorate and the politicians.
- These are the solid points of contact that they keep with the rock, which enable them to move safely.
- This chapter explores the points of contact between the theory of social representations and the rhetorical approach.
- Your family doctor is always your first point of contact.
- After 10 days and three predictable victories they were promoted, thanks to Woking dropping a point.
- But if they drop points, Leicester City or Derby County could triumph in a nail-biting finish.
- Everyone there - not to put too fine a point on it - was crazy.
- The dishes we tried tasted, not to put too fine a point on it, like gasoline.
- As the pedal is pressed downward from its highest point, it also moves forward.
- At the top of the theater steps, the highest point, all four forms appear.
- Christmas and New Year have long been the high point for visitor and Madeiran alike.
- His engagement to Nora Cushing had been the high point of her life.
- Political repression and racial discrimination were at a high point.
- That is just the intensification, the high point of an ongoing process.
- They were at the highest point for twenty li about.
- We are now reaching the high point of the truly happy life.
- Come straight to the point and keep to the point are the golden rules of letter writing.
- De Quincey was no master of keeping to the point.
- Nothing is more irritating than people who do not keep to the point and talk for too long.
- I understand what you're saying -- there's no need to labour the point.
- Enough has been said, and there is no need to labour the point.
- United were too liberal with their marking and Lee Clark laboured the point. 7 minutes later, they took overall control.
- He's so caught up in the rules that he's missing the point of the game, which is just to have fun.
- I soon realised that he had completely missed the point.
- You're both missing the point, which is to get more people to use public transportation.
- Alas, the critics were liable to miss the point or deliberately find fault with it.
- As usual, the Treasury misses the point entirely.
- Both these reactions miss the point.
- But that completely misses the point about the way the academic mind works.
- It's always easier for some one else to see where you've missed the point.
- It should be obvious, however, that he is here simply missing the point of theism.
- More importantly, it misses the point.
- She paused at the door so I would not miss the point.
- It's a moot point whether this is censorship.
- It is a moot point whether hierarchies exist outside our own thought processes.
- Quite how long Lord Young was proposing to delay publication is a moot point.
- This, of course, is a moot point.
- When you go to a place called Texas Bone, deciding what to order becomes a moot point.
- Whether the law should be this is a moot point.
- Whether they have appeared as part of the C. and A.G.'s audit is a moot point.
- Whether this input has made a significant impact on the pattern of activity is a moot point.
- I'm not going to run the marathon just to prove a point. I know I could do it if I wanted to.
- As others may have different theories a genuine desire to prove a point of view leads to some lively debate.
- But the Razor wanted to prove a point and demanded a return.
- He does not try to prove points one way or the other, but he does ask meaningful and relevant questions.
- Is Wilko trying to prove a point or does he just want rid of Rocky???
- That proves a point, doesn't it?
- That he didn't seemed to prove a point.
- They rose to the bait and decided they needed to prove a point, putting together their nine-piece Bootsy Collins-featuring live band.
- To prove a point I smashed a piece open and applied the magnets.
- Even she could not push the point any farther.
- If the customer pushes the point, he fights back.
- She decided not to push the point any further, could see he had switched off.
- Fitzgerald's case will be the reference point for lawyers in tomorrow's trial.
- The time he spent in prison serves as a point of reference for Bowden - the lessons are worth remembering.
- Align to line up typeset or other graphic material as specified, using a base or vertical line as the reference point.
- But he remained a constant reference point among those concerned about the course the nation was taking.
- I concentrated on the reference points and on keeping one or two rotor diameters away from the other ship.
- It is equally correct and sometimes more useful to view demand from the reference point of quantity.
- It was a reference point without which the tragedy could not be expressed.
- They establish reference points and reference lines.
- This team has a reference point.
- We are left with a play on signs which has no ultimate reference point other than the commodity.
- Even when scoring points at an astonishing pace, no opponent has been knocked out of a game.
- How well she could keep control and use words and manipulate their meanings and score points.
- National parks is a gold mine for scoring points with constituents, while anything in Commerce is a gold mine, period.
- Of course, PeÜek's collection automatically scores points over the competition by virtue of its uniqueness.
- People didn't try and score points off each other - contributions were acknowledged and applauded, rather than criticized or tested to destruction.
- Reagan had already scored points by crossing the stage before the debate to shake hands with the startled Carter.
- When he is good, like he was against Detroit, their offense can score points.
- When that gap is found, the attacker exploits it by unleashing a rapid barrage of kicks and punches to score points.
- And now she had pierced her again in this sore spot.
- Finally, there are plans to provide custodians a sore point to enable the churches to open for two hours a day.
- Graduate entry with resultant opportunities for promotion was then - as now - an especially sore point.
- It is still a sore point with both grandparents that neither Alice nor Henry have been baptized.
- The potential restriction of physician income is a major sore point.
- This is a sore spot with me.
- Tom gently washed Willie's body again and smoothed witch-hazel on to the sore spots.
- "Please stick to the facts," said the judge.
- But caution is required where miracles come into play; let us stick to the facts.
- Try to stick to the subject of the row rather than bringing up 25 years' worth of misdemeanours.
- All we had to experience was the trigger and off we went into a state of fear.
- And the loss of the ally may be the trigger which will start chain fission.
- Could either or both factors be the trigger?
- I had provided the direction in my lecture, and Our discussion was the trigger.
- That was the trigger that started the weeping.
- The new stand was the trigger for the layout.
- Your saying the work is urgent is the trigger, the result is lateness.
- Are you naturally more cautious, preferring to test the strength of your enemy before striking at his weak points?
- He had not dealt with the bishop's weak points nor, according to Hooker, had he carried the audience with him.
- However, in most of these, effusive approval is showered upon her, and her weak points are minimized.
- Positive interpretation of weaknesses Be honest about assessing your weak points as well.
- Scattered in pursuit, they provided perfect weak points for our counterattack.
- That is why molecular studies designed to find the weak points in the viral attack must continue, Trono said.
- We examined our weak points, and turned them into strengths.
- What are his strong and weak points?
- The whole point of coming here was to visit the cathedral.
- As the sperm penetrates the egg it obviously adds more genetic material, which of course is the whole point.
- His real name is Markham-or, as Blue sounds it out to himself, mark him-and that is the whole point.
- I mean, that was, in a way, the whole point.
- Not to know that is to be ignorant of the whole point of the affirmation.
- Since the whole point of belief is to be true, logical inconsistency in belief defeats the aim of belief.
- That, remember, is the whole point of female choosiness at leks.
- Well, that was the whole point.
WORD FAMILYnounpointpointerpointlessnessadjectivepointedpointypointlessadverbpointlesslypointedlyverbpoint
1
idea [countable] a single fact, idea, or opinion that is part of an argument or discussion: That’s a very interesting point. She made some extremely good points. There are three important points we must bear in mind. This brings me to my next point.point about I agree with John’s point about keeping the costs down.► see thesaurus at comment2main meaning/idea the point the most important fact or idea: The point is, at least we’re all safely back home. Nobody knows exactly how it works. That’s the whole point. He may not have stolen the money himself, but that’s not the point. I wish you’d get to the point (=talk about the most important thing). I’ll come straight to the point (=talk about the most important thing first). I need to find out who killed Alf, and more to the point (=what is more important) I need to do it before anyone else gets killed. We all like him, but that’s beside the point (=not the most important thing). I think you’ve missed the point (=you have not understood the most important thing).3purpose [uncountable] the purpose or aim of something: I suppose we could save one or two of the trees, but what’s the point?point of What’s the point of this meeting anyway? The whole point of this legislation is to protect children. There’s no point in worrying. We’re going to lose anyway, so I can’t see the point of playing. I didn’t see the point in moving to London.4place [countable] a particular place or position: The accident happened at the point where the A15 joins the M1. No cars are allowed beyond this point. a border crossing point Cairo is a convenient departure point for tours. Dover is a point of entry into Britain.► see thesaurus at place5in time/development [countable] an exact moment, time, or stage in the development of something: I had reached a point in my career where I needed to decide which way to go. She had got to the point where she felt that she could not take any more. Their win over old rivals Manchester United was the high point (=best part) in their season. Sales reached a low point in 1996. We will take last week’s riots as a starting point for our discussion. At one point, I thought he was going to burst into tears. Maybe at this point we should move onto some of the practical experiments. At that point, I was still living at home and had no job. You will probably sell the car at some point in the future. It is impossible to give a definite answer at this point in time. Some children are bullied to the point of suicide (=until they reach this stage).► see thesaurus at time6quality/feature [countable usually plural] a particular quality or feature that something or someone hassomebody’s/something’s good/bad points Sometimes she had to remind herself of his good points.point of They would spend hours discussing the finer points (=small details about qualities and features) of various cars. The low price is one of its main selling points (=features that will help to sell it). Driving was not one of Baxter’s strong points. One of the club’s plus points is that it is central. There were some weak points in his argument.7games/sport [countable] one of the marks or numbers that shows your score in a game or sport: He is three points behind the leader. Leeds United are now six points clear at the top of the table. She had to win this point. You get three points for a win and one point for a draw. You lose a point if you do not complete the puzzle on time. The fight went the full fifteen rounds, and in the end the American won on points.8sharp end [countable] a sharp end of something: the sharp point of a spear9boiling point/freezing point/melting point etc the temperature at which something boils, freezes, melts etc: Heat the water until it reaches boiling point.10the point of no return a stage in a process or activity when it becomes impossible to stop it or do something differentreach/pass the point of no return I was aware that we had passed the point of no return.11point of departure an idea which you use to start a discussion: He takes the idea of personal freedom as his point of departure.12be on the point of (doing) something to be going to do something very soon: I was on the point of giving up the search when something caught my eye in the bushes. The country’s economy is on the point of collapse.13up to a point partly, but not completely: I agree with you up to a point. That is true, but only up to a point.14to the point dealing only with the important subject or idea, and not including any unnecessary discussions: Her comments were brief and to the point.15make a point of doing something to do something deliberately, even when it involves making a special effort: He made a point of spending Saturdays with his children. I always make a point of being early.16when/if it comes to the point British English used to talk about what happens when someone is in a difficult situation and has to make a difficult decision: I’m sure that if it came to the point, he would do what is expected of him.17in point of fact formal used when saying that something is true, although it may seem unlikely: We were assured that the prisoners were being well treated, when in point of fact they were living in terrible conditions.18not to put too fine a point on it especially British English used when you are saying something in a very direct way: She’s lying, not to put too fine a point on it.19numbers [countable] a sign (.) used to separate a whole number from any decimals that follow it20measure on a scale [countable] a mark or measure on a scale: The stock market has fallen by over 200 points in the last week.21small spot [countable] a very small spot of light or colour: The stars shone like points of light in the sky.22direction [countable] one of the marks on a compass that shows direction: Soldiers were advancing on us from all points of the compass.23piece of land [countable] a long thin piece of land that stretches out into the sea: We sailed round the point into a small, sheltered bay.24electricity [countable] British English a piece of plastic with holes in it which is attached to a wall and to which electrical equipment can be connected: a telephone point an electrical point25railways points [plural] British English a piece of railway track that can be moved to allow a train to cross over from one track to another: The train rattled over the points. → pointeCOLLOCATIONS– Meaning 1adjectivesa good point· I think that’s a very good point.an interesting point· He has made an interesting point.an important point· That’s an important point to bear in mind.a serious point· He’s making a joke but there is a serious point there as well.a valid point· She raised a number of valid points.a general point· I’d like to make one further general point.a similar point· Kevin Phillips made a similar point in his 1993 book, ‘Boiling Point’.the main point· Finally, I will summarise the main points of this chapter.one final/last point· There is one final point I would like to make.verbsmake a point· He makes the point that predicting behaviour is not easy.put/get your point across (=make people understand it)· I think we got our point across.raise a point (=mention it)· I was going to raise that point.illustrate/demonstrate a point· A simple example will illustrate the point.prove your/a point (=prove that what you say is right)· He was determined to prove his point.understand a point· I’m sorry, I don’t understand your point.see/take/get somebody’s point (=understand or agree with it)· OK, I take your point. But it’s not that easy.have a point (=have made a good point)· Maybe she has a point.labour the point British English, belabor the point American English (=keep saying something)· I don’t wish to labour the point, but why didn’t you just tell me?clarify a point (=make it clearer)· Could you clarify a couple of points for me?phrasespoint taken (=used to say to someone that you accept what they say)· All right, point taken – I should have asked you first.the finer points of something (=the small details)· I’m afraid I don’t understand the finer points of the game.COLLOCATIONS– Meaning 2phrasesthe point is (that) ...· The point is that going by bus would be a lot cheaper.that’s the (whole) point· That’s the point. She didn’t tell us what was going on.that's not the point· We'd earn a lot of money, but that's not the point.be beside the point (=be not the most important thing to consider)· He's the best person for the job so his age is beside the point.more to the point (=what is more important)· When did she leave, and, more to the point, why?verbsget/come (straight) to the point (=talk about the most important thing immediately)· I haven't got much time so let's get straight to the point.get the point (=understand it)· He didn’t get the point at first.miss the point (=not understand it)· I don't know why but Mel always seems to miss the point.COLLOCATIONS– Meaning 5verbsreach a point· Some couples reach a point where divorce is the only solution.get to a point· You get to the point where ordinary things like climbing stairs are difficult.mark a high/low/turning etc point (=be or happen at a particular time in the development of something)· The day of the accident marked a turning point in Kenny’s life.ADJECTIVES/NOUN + pointa high point· Winning the World Championship was the high point of my career.a low point· She helped me when I was at a low point in my life.a starting point· The following recipes are a good starting point for making your own bread.a turning point (=the time when an important change starts, especially an improvement)· A turning point in the history of the republic came in 1358.crisis point (=the point at which a situation becomes extremely serious)· The tensions within the country have reached crisis point.breaking point (=a time when someone or something can no longer deal with something)· Our resources are stretched to breaking point.bursting point (=a time when something is completely full)· The hospital was full to bursting point.saturation point (=a time when no more can be added to something)· Is the market for computer games reaching saturation point?phrasesat one point (=at a time in the past)· At one point I was thinking of studying physics.at some point· Over half the population suffers from back pain at some point in their lives.at this/that point· I’m not prepared at this point to make any decision.at this/that point in time formal (=used especially in official speeches, announcements etc)· It would be wrong to comment at this point in time.to the point of something (=until a stage is reached or is near)· British industry was driven to the point of collapse.there comes a point when/where ...· There comes a point where you have to accept defeat.COLLOCATIONS– Meaning 6adjectivesgood points· Every system has its good points and its drawbacks.bad points· What would you say are Natalie’s bad points?somebody’s strong point (=something that they are good at)· Mathematics was never my strong point.somebody’s weak point (=something that they are not good at)· Be honest about assessing your weak points.a plus point British English (=an advantage or good feature)· The airline’s outstanding safety record is a major plus point.a positive point· Underfloor heating has a lot of positive points.a negative point· A few negative points should be mentioned.a selling point (=a quality or feature that makes people want to buy something)· The house's main selling point is its beautiful garden.the finer points of something (=small details about the qualities or features of something)· I'm afraid I'm not interested in the finer points of cars.COLLOCATIONS– Meaning 7verbsscore a point (=especially in games such as football, baseball, cricket etc)· The Kiwis scored 206 points in their three matches.win a point (=especially in games such as tennis, where the ball goes back and forth between competitors)· I didn't win a single point in my first few games.get a point informal (=score a point)· Our aim is to get as many points as possible.lose a point· If he’s got the answer wrong, he loses 250 points.give/award somebody a point· I was awarded 17 points out of 20.phraseswin/lose by 5/10 etc points· We only lost by two points.win/lose on points (=win or lose a fight because of the judges’ decision)· He was knocked down twice, before losing on points.be level on points British English:· The teams finished level on points.point1 nounpoint2 verb
pointpoint2 ●●● S2 W2 verb VERB TABLE
point
| Simple Form | ||
| Present | I, you, we, they | point |
| he, she, it | points | |
| Past | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | pointed |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have pointed |
| he, she, it | has pointed | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had pointed |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will point |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have pointed |
| Continuous Form | ||
| Present | I | am pointing |
| he, she, it | is pointing | |
| you, we, they | are pointing | |
| Past | I, he, she, it | was pointing |
| you, we, they | were pointing | |
| Present perfect | I, you, we, they | have been pointing |
| he, she, it | has been pointing | |
| Past perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | had been pointing |
| Future | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will be pointing |
| Future perfect | I, you, he, she, it, we, they | will have been pointing |
EXAMPLES FROM OTHER DICTIONARIES
- "Look,'' she said, pointing at a vase in a shop window.
- "That's Margo's bouquet, on the table.'' Mother pointed to a massive bunch of spring flowers.
- A handmade sign for the party pointed down a dirt road.
- Babies learn to point before they learn to talk.
- Children are taught that it's rude to point.
- Could you point me in the right direction?
- Don't point your finger at me.
- It will be time to go when the big hand points to 12 and the little hand points to 8.
- The teacher pointed at Marcus and told him to come to the front of the class.
- He rested the handle on the hair between her legs, the blade pointing up towards her abdomen.
- So when he followed up by pointing us towards the touchline, I got the shock of my life.
- The comment was pointed at du Cann.
- Then the rod-man screamed, arm pointing straight ahead at the surf.
- They were crowded together in a corner, their tails pointing the same way.
- Winston points to airline deregulation as case in point.
THESAURUS
to take a person or animal somewhere by going in front of them while they follow, or by pulling them gently: · Rachel led Jo into the kitchen.· She was leading a horse, which seemed to have a bad leg.
to take someone somewhere with you when you have the transport, know the way, are paying etc: · I took her to see a film.· Matt’s taking me in his car.
to take someone through or to a place you know, showing them the way: · Ali guided us through the streets to his house on the edge of the town.
to take someone to a place such as a table in a restaurant or a hotel room and leave them there: · A waitress showed us to our table.· We were shown to our seats near the front of the theatre.
to show someone which direction to go using your hand or a sign: · The sign back there pointed this way.
to take someone somewhere, protecting them, guarding them, or showing them the way: · He was escorted from the court by police.· The president’s car will be escorted by a military convoy.
to show someone the way to a room or building nearby, usually as part of your job: · His housekeeper ushered us into the living room.
to carefully take someone somewhere – used especially about a group of people: · The police shepherded thousands of people to safety in the cathedral.
formal to tell someone where to go or how to get somewhere: · He directed us to a café a few blocks away.· Can you direct me to the station?
Longman Language Activatorto say that you think someone has done something bad : accuse somebody of doing something · Human rights lawyers have accused the police of beating Murkett to death. · The man accused of kidnapping Lucy Pohl has been found guilty.accuse somebody of something · Protesters angrily accused the police of violence and intimidation.· A former businessman has gone on trial accused of a two million pound investment fraud.accuse somebody · How can you accuse me without knowing all the facts?
a statement saying that someone has done something bad : make an accusation: · You've made a lot of accusations but you haven't come up with any evidence to support them.accusation against: · A spokesman said the accusations against Mr Fallon would be investigated.accusation of: · There have been accusations of racism in the Los Angeles Police Department.level an accusation against somebody/something formal (=make an accusation): · A number of accusations have been levelled against Hutchinson by his former colleagues.wild accusation (=an accusation made without thinking carefully first): · You shouldn't make any wild accusations if you're not absolutely sure that Wilkins stole the money.
to say publicly that someone has done something bad or illegal, even though this has not been proved - used especially in newspapers and news reports : (allege that): · In a statement to the press, Massey alleged that her husband had planned to kill her.be alleged to have done something: · Taylor is alleged to have used public money to buy expensive presents for her friends.it is alleged that: · It has been alleged that senior officials were involved in a $20 million drugs deal.
a public statement saying that someone has done something bad or illegal, even though this has not been proved: make an allegation: · The newspaper made several allegations, none of which turned out to be true.allegation of: · There were allegations of corruption in the police department.allegation about: · The book contains shocking allegations about the senator's private life.allegation that: · There have been allegations in the press that the fire was started deliberately.serious allegation: · These are serious allegations. Do you have any evidence to support them?deny an allegation (=say it is false): · Weimar denied allegations of financial mismanagement.
to accuse someone of doing something by showing them the proof against them: confront somebody with the evidence/proof etc: · The FBI confronted Schmidt with the evidence of his part in the murder plot.
to say that you think someone is probably responsible for something bad that has happened, although you do not have definite proof: · Someone's lost the letter and the boss is pointing the finger at me.
if you look at, point at, or speak to someone accusingly , you do it in a way that shows you think they have done something bad: · Janet suddenly pointed at me, and everyone looked at me accusingly.· "You did it, Tom," she said accusingly. "I know you didn't mean to, but you did do it."
to make people pay attention to a subject or problem · The group is willing to use terrorism in order to draw attention to their desire for independence.· Fox was one of the first US scientists to call attention to the rising levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
to show that something is important and make people notice it, especially so that they start to do something about it: · The report highlighted the need for prison reform.· The Association's first project was to publish a 35-cent brochure highlighting nine historic sites.
to make a large group of people, especially the public, pay attention to one particular problem or bad situation because it needs their help: · The publicity campaign helped to focus attention on the needs of elderly people in the community.focus somebody's attention on: · The media's efforts often focus public attention on government incompetence, forcing government to do the right thing.
to inform someone in a position of power or authority about a problem, bad situation etc so that they can do something to help or stop it: · It was one of the other students who brought your misbehaviour to my attention.· The reviews provide a way for companies to bring their trade concerns to the attention of the government.
to tell someone about a mistake they have made, something they have forgotten etc: · He pointed out the danger of a mountain trek at this time of year.point out that: · I pointed out that changing the date would mean rescheduling the press conference.point something/it out: · I didn't realise I'd made a mistake. Thank you for pointing it out.as somebody points out: · As Palermo pointed out, Peruvian university students tend to be highly political.
to emphasize something to say or show that you think something is especially important: · Mann stressed the need to educate people about the risks of AIDS.· She said smoking was not permitted anywhere in the school - emphasizing the word 'anywhere'.emphasize/stress (that): · The County Sheriff emphasized that there was no evidence to show that the driver had been drinking.I can't emphasize enough spoken (=this needs to be emphasized a lot): · I can't emphasize enough how grateful we are for your donations.
to emphasize something such as a problem or a fact, especially by providing new information about it: · This report highlights some of the problems faced by old people in winter.· The slump in the car industry was highlighted by Ford's offer of a $600 rebate on new cars.
if something that happens underlines or underscores a fact, especially one that is already known, it helps to emphasize that it is true: · Yesterday's shelling of a Red Cross hospital underlines the difficulties faced by rescue teams.· The recent rioting in South Africa has underlined the government's lack of control.· The dire state of child health in the country was underscored in a report by UNICEF.
to emphasize a fact or idea by giving additional, often surprising or shocking, information about it: · After the talk, the students were shown a video about heroin addiction to drive the point home.drive the point home/drive home the point that: · The reconstruction of the accident certainly drove home the point that drink-driving can kill.
also make great play of British to emphasize a fact or idea, by giving it more attention than anything else, especially if you are trying to make it seem more important than it really is: · At the interview, remember to play up your experience of teaching in Japan.· On TV last night the Democratic candidate was clearly playing up his caring image.make great play of (doing) something: · The Prime Minister made great play of environmental issues, considering how little the government has done.
to emphasize something, especially the differences between two things or situations: · In Britain, the choice between state and private schools accentuates the differences between rich and poor.· The director uses music to accentuate the rising dramatic tension.
to make something, especially the true facts of a situation, clearer and more noticeable: · Recent protests in the north of the country point up the dilemma the opposition forces are in.· Low literacy rates among the women in this area point up the need for much greater investment in girls' education.
a person or group of people you play against to use your finger to show which person or thing you mean: · Children are taught that it's rude to point.point at: · "Look," she said, pointing at a vase in a shop window.· The teacher pointed at Marcus and told him to come to the front of the class.point to/ towards: · "That's Margo's bouquet, on the table.'' Mother pointed to a massive bunch of spring flowers.point your finger at: · Don't point your finger at me.
to show someone the person or thing you mean in a more polite way than pointing, for example by looking at them or moving your head slightly: · "Shall we go in here?" Calvin indicated the cafe.· "I'd like you to meet Todd," he said, indicating a tall man standing next to him.
to point towards a person or thing by holding out your hand towards them: · "I'm not going out in this weather," said Lydia, gesturing at the heavy rain outside.· "Do you see all these people here?" She gestured towards the hospital corridor.
to show someone a person or thing, especially one that they are interested to know about, by pointing: point out somebody/something: · John pointed out the building where he worked.point somebody/something out: · She wanted to know which was my house, so I pointed it out to her as we drove past.point out somebody/something to somebody: · I asked him to point out the new headteacher to me at the party.
to say something to say something using spoken or written words: · "I must be going," she said.· "Where's Pam going?" "I don't know. She didn't say."· It says in today's paper that gas prices are going up again.say (that): · James wrote to the bank and said we needed a loan.· Did Peter say that he would be late?say what/where/why etc: · Did they say how long the operation would take?say hello/sorry/no etc (to somebody): · Lauren came over to say goodbye to us.· I asked Dad if he'd lend me some money, but he said no.say something to somebody: · What did you say to her?something/anything to say: · I couldn't think of anything to say.say so: · If there's anything you're not happy about, please say so.
to make the sound of a word or a part of a word in a particular way - use this also to ask or say what is the correct way to say something: · How do you pronounce your name?· Some students find it difficult to pronounce the word "the".· Words like 'chicken' and 'cheese' were once pronounced with a 'k'.
to talk about someone or something, but without giving details or saying very much about them: · He mentioned something about a party, but he didn't say when it was.· When I mentioned her name, he looked embarrassed.mention (that): · I forgot to mention that I won't be in tomorrow.mention where/when/who etc: · Did he mention where he went to school?it is worth mentioning that: · It is worth mentioning that young children are particularly vulnerable to accidents in the home.
to tell someone something that they had not noticed or had not thought about: · As Sharon pointed out, the story was rather hard to believe.point out something: · He pointed out the dangers of setting off without the right equipment.point out (that): · It's worth pointing out that very few people ever die of this disease.point something out: · He never used to notice when people took advantage of him, so I started pointing it out.
to let someone know your feelings, by putting them into words: · Ollie found it hard to express his feelings about the war.· Parents have expressed concern about the amount of violence in some children's shows.express yourself (=make people understand what you are thinking or feeling): · Young children often find it difficult to express themselves in words.
to express an idea in a particular way, choosing your words carefully to explain what you mean simply or clearly: put it another way: · If you don't understand, I'll try and put it another way.to put it bluntly/briefly/simply etc: · Their performance was, to put it bluntly, atrocious.put it this way spoken (=use this when you are trying to say something in the clearest possible way): · Put it this way: if we don't make a profit, we're out of a job.
to say what your opinion is about someone or something that you have seen, heard, or read about: · "He only wears those clothes to prove that he's rich,'' commented Harold.· Journalists asked General Curran how the campaign was going, but he refused to comment.comment on/upon: · The prime minister was asked to comment on the crisis.comment that: · Some critics have commented that the film lacks originality.
to say what you have noticed about a particular person, situation etc or to express an opinion about them: · "There's a strange smell in here,'' she remarked.remark that: · Kate remarked that it was amazing how much her kids knew about science.remark on (=notice something and then say something about it): · A lot of our customers remark on the quality of our workmanship.
to say something more, after what has already been said or written: · Is there anything you'd like to add, Peter?· ''Finally'', she added, ''I would like to thank my family for their support''.add that: · I should add that I do not agree with Doctor Mitchell.
to show someone where something is: show (somebody) where · The secretary showed him where to hang his coat.· Please find enclosed a map showing where our offices areshow somebody something · Uncle Joe showed me the best place to go fishing.show somebody the way · I'll show you the way to the station. It's not far.
to show someone where someone or something is, by pointing towards it with your finger: · He took out a map and pointed to the island.· "The whiskey's over there," Katie said, pointing to a bottle on the table.· Can you point to the one you want?
to show someone a particular person or thing that you want them to notice, especially by pointing towards it with your finger: point out somebody/something: · As we drove through Baltimore, Mary pointed out the house where she was born.point somebody/something out: · Which one's your boss? Can you point her out?point out something to somebody: · "Aren't they beautiful?'' said the guide, pointing out the paintings on the ceiling to us.point out something for somebody: · Once they'd been pointed out for me, I had no trouble identifying the major stars and planets.
to show where something is by putting an object there or making a mark: · Michael gave us a map of the city and marked some places of interest to visit.· He put a slip of paper in his book to mark his page.· A barbed wire fence marks the boundary between the two communities.mark the spot: · The church marks the spot where St Peter died.
to show where something or someone is by pointing with part of your body: · The Director indicated a small table, where the items were on display.· "Shall we go in here?" He indicated the coffee bar.indicate (something) with something: · "That's my boss,'' he said, indicating with a nod of his head.
WORD SETSadjoin, verbalcove, nounantechamber, nounanteroom, nounapartment block, nounapse, nounarcade, nounart gallery, nounatrium, nounattic, nounauditorium, nounawning, nounback door, nounback-to-back, nounbailey, nounbalcony, nounbalustrade, nounbanister, nounbarn, nounbasilica, nounbastion, nounbay window, nounblock, nounbrownstone, nounbungalow, nounbunkhouse, nounbyre, nouncabin, nouncampanile, nouncanteen, nouncarport, nouncasement, nouncastle, nounceiling, nouncellar, nouncentre, nounchalet, nounchamber, nounchancel, nounchanging room, nounchateau, nounchimney, nounchimney breast, nounchimney pot, nounchimney stack, nouncladding, nounclerk of works, nouncloakroom, nouncloister, nounclubhouse, nouncoatroom, nouncocktail lounge, nouncolonnade, nouncolumn, nouncommon room, nouncomplex, nouncompound, nounconcourse, nouncondominium, nounconservatory, nounconvent, nouncoping, nouncornerstone, nouncorn exchange, nouncorridor, nouncottage, nouncountry house, nouncountry seat, nouncourthouse, nouncowshed, noundado, noundance hall, noundetached, adjectivedoor, noundoorpost, noundormer, nounedifice, nounentry, nounentryway, nounestate, nounestate agent, nounextension, nouneyrie, nounfacade, nounfallout shelter, nounfamily room, nounfarmhouse, nounfire door, nounfire escape, nounfire station, nounfitment, nounfixture, nounflatlet, nounflight, nounfloor, nounfolly, nounforecourt, nounfort, nounfortress, nounfoyer, nounfrontage, nounfront room, nounfuneral home, noungable, noungabled, adjectivegargoyle, noungrandstand, noungrange, noungranny flat, noungrille, nounground floor, nounguardhouse, nounguesthouse, nounguildhall, noungutter, nounguttering, noungym, noungymnasium, nounhabitation, nounhall, nounhallway, nounhatch, nounhatchway, nounhayloft, nounhealth centre, nounhigh-rise, adjectivehospice, nounhospital, nounlaboratory, nounlanding, nounleaded lights, nounlean-to, nounledge, nounlightning conductor, nounlintel, nounlobby, nounlodge, nounloft, nounlog cabin, nounlounge, nounlouvre, nounmaisonette, nounmezzanine, nounmilking parlour, nounmoving staircase, nounmullion, nounnave, nounniche, nounoast house, nounobelisk, nounoffice building, nounoratory, nounoutbuilding, nounouthouse, nounoverhang, nounparapet, nounparty wall, nounpediment, nounpenthouse, nounperistyle, nounpicture window, nounpilaster, nounpillar, nounpinnacle, nounplatform, nounplumber, nounplumbing, nounpodium, nounpoint, verbPortakabin, nounpotting shed, nounpresbytery, nounpress gallery, nounprivy, nounpublic convenience, nounpyramid, nounrafter, nounrail, nounrampart, nounribbon development, nounrotunda, nounsanctuary, nounschoolhouse, nounscience park, nounsepulchre, nounservice charge, nounshack, nounshed, nounshop front, nounskylight, nounskyscraper, nounsliding door, nounsmokestack, nounsmoking room, nounspiral staircase, nounspire, nounsports centre, nounstack, nounstadium, nounstair, nounstaircase, nounstairway, nounstairwell, nounstall, nounstately home, nounstateroom, nounstation, nounsteeple, nounstep, nounstonework, nounstoop, nounstoreroom, nounstorm cellar, nounstory, nounstudio, nountenement, nountepee, nounterrace, nountheatre, nountoilet, nountool shed, nountower block, nountown hall, nountownhouse, nountransept, nountransom, nountrapdoor, nountreasury, nounturret, nounvault, nounvaulted, adjectivevaulting, nounventilator, nounvestibule, nounvilla, nounwalkway, nounwall, nounwatchtower, nounwater tower, nounweatherboard, nounwedding chapel, nounwing, nounwoodshed, nounworkhouse, nounworkroom, nounworkshop, noun
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE ENTRY She pointed in the direction of the car park. He stood up and pointed his finger at me. Could you point me in the direction of the bathroom, please? A financial adviser should be able to point you in the right direction. I don’t want to point a finger of blame at anyone.COLLOCATIONS FROM OTHER ENTRIES They argued the point (=discussed it) for hours without reaching a conclusion. an assembly point (=a place where people go in a particular situation) Relations between the two countries have almost reached boiling point. The firm should reach breakeven point after one year. The issue of hunting is a source of contention. a debatable point Swindon were six points down at one stage. We stayed up discussing the finer points of Marxist theory. Jake was pointing a gun at the door. They’ve just reached the halfway stage of the project. Let me give an example to illustrate the point. Nadal was leading by two sets. The government lost by one vote. The Communist candidate lost by a whisker (=a very small amount). ‘Any minus points?’ ‘Well, the engine is rather noisy.’ The price includes travel from your local pick-up point in the UK to your hotel in Paris. Another of the Beach Club’s plus points is that it’s right in the middle of town. He refused point-blank to identify his accomplices. a point-blank refusal The bullet was fired at point-blank range. He decided it was time to press his point home. As you so rightly pointed out, things are getting worse. The number of summer tourists in the area has reached saturation point. He has scored 12 goals so far this season. I can’t see the point of (=I do not understand the reason for) spending so much money on a car. Do you see the point I’m making (=do you understand what I’m trying to say)? As yet, there are few signposts pointing to success. I think I should get straight to the point. This meeting is beginning to stray from the point. We’ll stretch a point (=allow a rule to be broken) and let the baby travel free this time. United were a goal up at half time. Be honest about your weak points (=your faults or the things you do not do well). There are some weak points in her argument.
She pointed in the direction of the car park. He stood up and pointed his finger at me. Could you point me in the direction of the bathroom, please? A financial adviser should be able to point you in the right direction. I don’t want to point a finger of blame at anyone. They argued the point (=discussed it) for hours without reaching a conclusion. an assembly point (=a place where people go in a particular situation) (=say that someone is responsible for something bad)· I couldn’t believe it when they started pointing the finger of blame at me.
Relations between the two countries have almost reached boiling point. The firm should reach breakeven point after one year.· A group of Japanese tourists were pointing their cameras at the cathedral.
· She had a narrow face and a pointed chin.
(=the marks that show you north, south, east etc)· She was teaching the children the points of the compass.
(=make you decide that something is true)· All the data led to only one conclusion.
The issue of hunting is a source of contention. (=the point at which a problem becomes a crisis)· Events were now reaching crisis point.
· This was a crucial point in our relationship.
(=the date etc when you stop doing something) The cut-off date for registration is July 2.
The cut-off date for registration is July 2. a debatable point (=the place where you leave from)· Luxor is one departure point for boat trips down the Nile.
(=a particular thing that people disagree about)· A point of disagreement between the two parties concerns the future of nuclear power.
Swindon were six points down at one stage.· The dog has short pointy ears.
(=a place where people can enter a country)· The 2,000 mile border is the main entry point into the country for illegal aliens.
· The essential point is that all children should have an equal opportunity to study.
We stayed up discussing the finer points of Marxist theory. Jake was pointing a gun at the door. They’ve just reached the halfway stage of the project. (=something you feel you must do because of your moral beliefs)· To my mum, paying bills on time is a point of honour.
Let me give an example to illustrate the point.· The environment became a key issue during the election.
Nadal was leading by two sets. (=a lead of a specific amount)· Goals by Keane and Lennon gave Tottenham a two-goal lead.
The government lost by one vote. The Communist candidate lost by a whisker (=a very small amount). ‘Any minus points?’ ‘Well, the engine is rather noisy.’ (=they feel very nervous or worried)· Her nerves were stretched almost to breaking point as she waited.
(=0.1, 0.2 etc)
(=a place from where you can observe something)· The peak of the mountain was a natural location for an observation post.
(=used to say that something has stopped being a normal interest and become an extreme one)· She was protective of her children, to the point of obsession.
(=one percent)· The party increased its share of the vote by almost 4 percentage points.
The price includes travel from your local pick-up point in the UK to your hotel in Paris. Another of the Beach Club’s plus points is that it’s right in the middle of town. He refused point-blank to identify his accomplices. a point-blank refusal The bullet was fired at point-blank range.· Saving energy in your home is fairly easy from a practical point of view.
· From a financial point of view, the concert was a disaster.
· This book was the first to study language from a scientific point of view.
· It's a fascinating case, from a legal point of view.
· From the political point of view, it was important that the country showed it was adhering to the treaty.
· The system is seriously flawed from a security point of view.
He decided it was time to press his point home.· To prove her point, Dr Hurdal showed her audience a scan of a patient’s brain.
· You should put that point to the Chancellor.
· I’ve reached the point in my life where I need a new challenge.
(=immediate, direct, and without a reason)· This point-blank refusal to discuss the issue enraged him.
(=directly and without explanation)· I refused point-blank to let him in.
As you so rightly pointed out, things are getting worse. The number of summer tourists in the area has reached saturation point. He has scored 12 goals so far this season. I can’t see the point of (=I do not understand the reason for) spending so much money on a car. Do you see the point I’m making (=do you understand what I’m trying to say)? As yet, there are few signposts pointing to success. I think I should get straight to the point. This meeting is beginning to stray from the point.· This point needs to be stressed.
We’ll stretch a point (=allow a rule to be broken) and let the baby travel free this time. (=used to say that you accept someone’s opinion)
United were a goal up at half time.· I think that's a valid point.
Be honest about your weak points (=your faults or the things you do not do well). There are some weak points in her argument.· We won by 23 points.
· The team had a nine-point win over Arizona.
COLLOCATIONS FROM THE CORPUSADVERB· They also point out that the excessive amounts of sugar in some brands could also be harmful to older babies' teeth.· But they also point to the benefits of meaningful work in building self-esteem.· It also points out that Corus would not have to intend this outcome for there to be an action under the treaty.· They also point to cost savings for employers and patients alike.· Coverage of the Henan scandal also points the finger at inaction by the provincial authorities.· She also points to a 1989-90 grand jury report that alleged widespread police misconduct while Kolender was chief.· Hicks also points out that mis-spelt names may account for 20-50% of all errors in citations.· As they state, Piven and Cloward also point out the frequently racist aspects of states' policies toward the poor.
· Guide writers have a traditional obligation to honour the historical record, alongside their duty to point out present circumstances.· The speaker pointed out, quite correctly, that this concept includes two separate types of therapy.· After defence lawyers pointed out the flats had not yet been built, they changed to an unspecified date in 1993.· Furthermore, the agent pointed out, he was not dead.· Many do not even see the business benefits of their ideas until these are pointed out to them.· Should it be pointed out all three winners were males?· It should be pointed out that despite increasing income concentration, there has been a general improvement in the quality of life.· But please remember what Doctor Barton has pointed out - you are not being judged twice for the same crime.
· He took an involuntary pace forward and raised the shotgun to point straight at Angel One's face.· Her doll sits stiffly, pointed straight ahead at the fixtures that emerge from the wall.· Then the rod-man screamed, arm pointing straight ahead at the surf.· It was pointing straight at him now.· I purchased a dedicated Pentax flashgun with an adjustable flash head which could be adjusted to point straight ahead or angled upwards.· He is pointing straight at William, who has his hand up.· Now keep it there and bend your body gradually sideways to the right, keeping your right arm pointing straight down.· Its barrel was pointing straight at her.
· But the new-look candidates he pointed to are virtual unknowns.· For we concentrated entirely on resources internal to the individual rule-follower, on things which a solipsist could point to.· Is it possible, however, to point to even earlier examples of boundaries?· A final qualification is that the issues we are pointing to here are thoroughly debatable.· The first thing I would point to is that our training costs for last year averaged out at £5,100 per trainee.· Why, that must be where the signpost wass pointing to!· What could we point to if some one chose the latter continuation, to show that he was wrong?· It might also point to more appropriate ways of re-classifying subject areas so that the perspectives of both genders are represented.
NOUN· Reoffered at 99. 5 to yield 485 basis points above the 7. 125 % Bund due 2003.· Two-year note yields tumbled 12 basis points to 5. 04, the lowest since March 1994.· August 1998 bonds rose 5 basis points to 7. 47 percent.· Reoffered at 99. 845 to yield a spread at the launch of three basis points above U. S. Treasurys.· The spread between the two-year and 10-year gilt was 133 basis points, unchanged from yesterday.· Mortgageto-Treasury spreads were seen tightening, but not by much more than a couple basis points.· Yields a spread of 34 basis points above the 10-year Treasury note.· The benchmark 5-year sterling swap spread was unchanged at 34 basis points.
· With a certain amount of ingenuity she can even use the balloon to steer herself by pointing it in various directions.· He raised his arm and pointed in no particular direction.· Apparently, one out of every 16 signposts at crossroads in the region are pointing in the wrong direction.· The main point: determine a direction in your list and follow it.· The same ideas apply in digraphs, except that all the edges must point in the same direction.· The circle is actually a large microwave tower with nine cones pointing in five directions.· However, he still managed to keep the weapon pointing loosely in his direction.· The old woman points south in the direction of the big house.
· One thing that must be pointed out is the fact that these remarks, however romantic-sounding, are all self-centred.· Other experts point to the fact that even specialists are losing jobs.· I pointed to the fact that I was younger than when he took over.· Manchester executives are not shy about pointing out that fact.· Rather it points to the fact that there has been a subtle change in the composition of the teaching force.· I can summarize the preceding by pointing to the fact that there is actually a dual metaphor being employed.· All the evidence would seem to point to the fact that this is the case.
· Squeezing To boost circulation in the thighs and calves, place your hands on the skin, fingers pointing away from you.· Her outstretched finger pointed to the window behind Dove.· Now the Collector's finger was pointing at other objects, including even those belonging to himself.· Because now the finger was pointed at managers: everyone knew if their office had a high rate.· With your fingers pointing downwards, gently pull each hand alternately straight up from the floor or table.· Dark fingers pointed at his wedding ring.· Bridget looked at where the small pink finger was pointing, she could see nothing.· Pointing, and tapping the button with the finger they were pointing with.
· They looked at the passports and then started to walk down the aisle, pointing their guns at the passengers.· Deering, whom Warren Cokley knew, entered pointing a gun at him.· He snapped off a shot, hardly even bothering to point the gun before he squeezed the trigger.· If Jack let his men point a gun at his own club, what other club could be safe?· Two men in their late teens or early twenties came into the office and pointed their guns at the cashiers face.· I turned around and saw a man pointing a gun at me.· Facing that wall was a picture of a huge hand pointing a gun directly at you.· I can close my eyes and point the gun and hit whatever it is.
· The gender gap is the difference between these two margins: 16 percentage points.· Today, the prime rate is 2. 83 percentage points higher than the yield on a 10-year government note.· The poll, conducted by telephone Jan. 2-7, has a margin of error of 5. 5 percentage points.· It has a margin of error of plus or minus 3. 5 percentage points.· The finding carries a margin of error of 3. 5 percentage points.· So the female preference for Clinton was 5 percentage points higher than the male preference.· It would also raise the payroll tax 1. 52 percentage points.· By fifth grade, the difference had grown to 10. 8 percentage points.
· It points the way to new directions for the late 1980s and 1990s.· The stark resonance of this solo piano album pointed the way.· Here, we can but point the way to the reader.· Suman Fernando points the way to a view of mental health that would be worthy of our rich and diverse world.· But without critics to point the way, that money might as well be tossed into the wind.· This may point the way in regard to the original problem.· Everything seemed to point that way.
VERB· Isaac Hawkins and Julius Page scored 10 points each.· Except for the time I scored 84 points in a backyard basketball game.· The Matadors scored the first five points of the match and won the first game without much drama.· The only starter to emerge with a decent game was rookie Brent Barry, who scored a career-high 22 points.· I like scoring the quiet points.
PHRASES FROM THE ENTRYPHRASES FROM OTHER ENTRIES► two points/five seconds etc adrift (of somebody)► get/score/earn Brownie points► (that’s a) good idea/point/question
- After much speculation we all started to point the finger at Dawn.
- Each time there is a suicide bomb or attack we should point a finger at ourselves?
- It needed to point a finger at Simpson, the manufacturer.
- Now the computer's resources are to be used to help point the finger at the possible killer of James Bulger.
- The recreationists point the finger at developers.
- There shall not need anyone but myself to point the finger at me.
- To minimise his sentence, Boesky pointed the finger at people he had dealt with.
- Why did no one point a finger at a man for yielding to his desires?
- No signs point the way to Carson's grave.
- Several themes at the conference point the way for new nursing research.
- But although by themselves they do not take us this far, they do at least point the way.
- But without critics to point the way, that money might as well be tossed into the wind.
- Everything pointed the way towards a better political awareness for young people.
- In itself this does not seem to me to point the way towards any helpful scientific theory of mind.
- It points the way to new directions for the late 1980s and 1990s.
- Several precedents, particularly those established in the forum of the United Nations Organisation, had pointed the way.
- The stark resonance of this solo piano album pointed the way.
- What do they do besides wave their arms and point their toes?
- There is no need to belabour the point here.
- It's unrealistic, but that's beside the point - it's just good entertainment.
- But the pedigree of this idea is beside the point.
- But to criticize Mr Hall's production as an exercise in fuddy-duddy Shakespeare is beside the point.
- He may manufacture these life units as required and he may simply have a given supply: that is beside the point.
- She had come to no harm, but that was beside the point.
- This semantic distinction is beside the point; the special admissions program is undeniably a classification based on race and ethnic back-ground.
- What the outcome of seeing him might be is beside the point.
- Barthez escaped with a yellow card despite clearly kicking Ian Harte to concede a penalty.
- But as Saracens consistently conceded penalties, Humphreys accepted the points on offer.
- Chiddingfold should have taken the lead after five minutes when Rob Madgwick conceded a penalty for a trip.
- Hitchcock has yet to concede a goal since stepping in for Dave Beasant.
- Liverpool can not afford to concede a goal tonight-and James has yet to keep a clean sheet.
- It's difficult to find a point of contact between theory and practice.
- The new service center will serve as the single point of contact for general customer inquiries.
- I have spoken of the point of contact but with the proper grip it will be much easier.
- If you bought mail order, then the first point of contact is the software house or importer concerned.
- In the early stages, the baby's mouth is an important point of contact with the world.
- It also reduced friction at the point of contact.
- The parties are no longer the chief point of contact between the electorate and the politicians.
- These are the solid points of contact that they keep with the rock, which enable them to move safely.
- This chapter explores the points of contact between the theory of social representations and the rhetorical approach.
- Your family doctor is always your first point of contact.
- After 10 days and three predictable victories they were promoted, thanks to Woking dropping a point.
- But if they drop points, Leicester City or Derby County could triumph in a nail-biting finish.
- Everyone there - not to put too fine a point on it - was crazy.
- The dishes we tried tasted, not to put too fine a point on it, like gasoline.
- As the pedal is pressed downward from its highest point, it also moves forward.
- At the top of the theater steps, the highest point, all four forms appear.
- Christmas and New Year have long been the high point for visitor and Madeiran alike.
- His engagement to Nora Cushing had been the high point of her life.
- Political repression and racial discrimination were at a high point.
- That is just the intensification, the high point of an ongoing process.
- They were at the highest point for twenty li about.
- We are now reaching the high point of the truly happy life.
- Come straight to the point and keep to the point are the golden rules of letter writing.
- De Quincey was no master of keeping to the point.
- Nothing is more irritating than people who do not keep to the point and talk for too long.
- I understand what you're saying -- there's no need to labour the point.
- Enough has been said, and there is no need to labour the point.
- United were too liberal with their marking and Lee Clark laboured the point. 7 minutes later, they took overall control.
- He's so caught up in the rules that he's missing the point of the game, which is just to have fun.
- I soon realised that he had completely missed the point.
- You're both missing the point, which is to get more people to use public transportation.
- Alas, the critics were liable to miss the point or deliberately find fault with it.
- As usual, the Treasury misses the point entirely.
- Both these reactions miss the point.
- But that completely misses the point about the way the academic mind works.
- It's always easier for some one else to see where you've missed the point.
- It should be obvious, however, that he is here simply missing the point of theism.
- More importantly, it misses the point.
- She paused at the door so I would not miss the point.
- It's a moot point whether this is censorship.
- It is a moot point whether hierarchies exist outside our own thought processes.
- Quite how long Lord Young was proposing to delay publication is a moot point.
- This, of course, is a moot point.
- When you go to a place called Texas Bone, deciding what to order becomes a moot point.
- Whether the law should be this is a moot point.
- Whether they have appeared as part of the C. and A.G.'s audit is a moot point.
- Whether this input has made a significant impact on the pattern of activity is a moot point.
- I'm not going to run the marathon just to prove a point. I know I could do it if I wanted to.
- As others may have different theories a genuine desire to prove a point of view leads to some lively debate.
- But the Razor wanted to prove a point and demanded a return.
- He does not try to prove points one way or the other, but he does ask meaningful and relevant questions.
- Is Wilko trying to prove a point or does he just want rid of Rocky???
- That proves a point, doesn't it?
- That he didn't seemed to prove a point.
- They rose to the bait and decided they needed to prove a point, putting together their nine-piece Bootsy Collins-featuring live band.
- To prove a point I smashed a piece open and applied the magnets.
- Even she could not push the point any farther.
- If the customer pushes the point, he fights back.
- She decided not to push the point any further, could see he had switched off.
- Fitzgerald's case will be the reference point for lawyers in tomorrow's trial.
- The time he spent in prison serves as a point of reference for Bowden - the lessons are worth remembering.
- Align to line up typeset or other graphic material as specified, using a base or vertical line as the reference point.
- But he remained a constant reference point among those concerned about the course the nation was taking.
- I concentrated on the reference points and on keeping one or two rotor diameters away from the other ship.
- It is equally correct and sometimes more useful to view demand from the reference point of quantity.
- It was a reference point without which the tragedy could not be expressed.
- They establish reference points and reference lines.
- This team has a reference point.
- We are left with a play on signs which has no ultimate reference point other than the commodity.
- Even when scoring points at an astonishing pace, no opponent has been knocked out of a game.
- How well she could keep control and use words and manipulate their meanings and score points.
- National parks is a gold mine for scoring points with constituents, while anything in Commerce is a gold mine, period.
- Of course, PeÜek's collection automatically scores points over the competition by virtue of its uniqueness.
- People didn't try and score points off each other - contributions were acknowledged and applauded, rather than criticized or tested to destruction.
- Reagan had already scored points by crossing the stage before the debate to shake hands with the startled Carter.
- When he is good, like he was against Detroit, their offense can score points.
- When that gap is found, the attacker exploits it by unleashing a rapid barrage of kicks and punches to score points.
- And now she had pierced her again in this sore spot.
- Finally, there are plans to provide custodians a sore point to enable the churches to open for two hours a day.
- Graduate entry with resultant opportunities for promotion was then - as now - an especially sore point.
- It is still a sore point with both grandparents that neither Alice nor Henry have been baptized.
- The potential restriction of physician income is a major sore point.
- This is a sore spot with me.
- Tom gently washed Willie's body again and smoothed witch-hazel on to the sore spots.
- "Please stick to the facts," said the judge.
- But caution is required where miracles come into play; let us stick to the facts.
- Try to stick to the subject of the row rather than bringing up 25 years' worth of misdemeanours.
- All we had to experience was the trigger and off we went into a state of fear.
- And the loss of the ally may be the trigger which will start chain fission.
- Could either or both factors be the trigger?
- I had provided the direction in my lecture, and Our discussion was the trigger.
- That was the trigger that started the weeping.
- The new stand was the trigger for the layout.
- Your saying the work is urgent is the trigger, the result is lateness.
- Are you naturally more cautious, preferring to test the strength of your enemy before striking at his weak points?
- He had not dealt with the bishop's weak points nor, according to Hooker, had he carried the audience with him.
- However, in most of these, effusive approval is showered upon her, and her weak points are minimized.
- Positive interpretation of weaknesses Be honest about assessing your weak points as well.
- Scattered in pursuit, they provided perfect weak points for our counterattack.
- That is why molecular studies designed to find the weak points in the viral attack must continue, Trono said.
- We examined our weak points, and turned them into strengths.
- What are his strong and weak points?
- The whole point of coming here was to visit the cathedral.
- As the sperm penetrates the egg it obviously adds more genetic material, which of course is the whole point.
- His real name is Markham-or, as Blue sounds it out to himself, mark him-and that is the whole point.
- I mean, that was, in a way, the whole point.
- Not to know that is to be ignorant of the whole point of the affirmation.
- Since the whole point of belief is to be true, logical inconsistency in belief defeats the aim of belief.
- That, remember, is the whole point of female choosiness at leks.
- Well, that was the whole point.
WORD FAMILYnounpointpointerpointlessnessadjectivepointedpointypointlessadverbpointlesslypointedlyverbpoint
1show something with your finger [intransitive, transitive] to show something to someone by holding up one of your fingers or a thin object towards it: ‘Look!’ she said and pointed.point at I could see him pointing at me and telling the other guests what I had said.point to/towards She was pointing to a small boat that was approaching the shore.point with The driver pointed with his whip. She pointed in the direction of the car park. He stood up and pointed his finger at me.► see thesaurus at lead2aim something [transitive always + adverb/preposition] to hold something so that it is aimed towards a person or thingpoint something at somebody/something He stood up and pointed his gun at the prisoner. She produced a camera and pointed it at me.3face in one direction [intransitive always + adverb/preposition] to face or be aimed in a particular direction: The arrow always points north. There were flashlights all around us, pointing in all directions.point at There were TV cameras pointing at us.point to/towards The hands of the clock pointed to a quarter past one. We found footprints pointing towards the back door.4show somebody where to go [transitive always + adverb/preposition] to show someone which direction they should go in: She pointed me towards an armchair. Could you point me in the direction of the bathroom, please?5suggest what somebody should do [transitive always + adverb/preposition] to suggest what someone should do: My teachers were all pointing me towards university. A financial adviser should be able to point you in the right direction.6suggest that something is true [intransitive always + adverb/preposition] to suggest that something is true: Everything seemed to point in one direction.point to/towards All the evidence pointed towards Blake as the murderer. Everything points to her having died from a drugs overdose.7walls/buildings [transitive] British English to put new cement between the bricks of a wall8point your toes to stretch the ends of your feet downwards9point the/a finger at somebody to blame someone or say that they have done something wrong: I knew that they would point the finger at me. I don’t want to point a finger of blame at anyone.10point the way a)to show the direction that something is inpoint to/towards An old-fashioned signpost pointed the way to the restaurant. b)to show how something could change or develop successfullypoint forward/forwards This report points the way forward for the water industry.point to/towards a government paper which points the way towards reformpoint something ↔ out phrasal verb1to tell someone something that they did not already know or had not thought about: He was always very keen to point out my mistakes. The murder was obviously well planned, as the inspector had pointed out.point out that Some economists have pointed out that low inflation is not necessarily a good thing.point something out to somebody Thank you for pointing this out to me.2to show something to someone by pointing at it: Luke pointed out two large birds by the water’s edge.point somebody/something out to somebody I’ll point him out to you if we see him.point to something phrasal verb to mention something because you think it is important: Many politicians have pointed to the need for a written constitution.point something ↔ up phrasal verb formal to make something seem more important or more noticeable: These cases point up the complete incompetence of some government departments.