make a point: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘make a point’ mean?
The idiom "make a point" means to express or communicate a clear and specific idea or opinion in order to prove a particular argument or to emphasize a specific aspect.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "take a stand" means to publicly express one's opinion or position on a certain issue, often in a bold and assertive manner.
"Point out" is an idiom that means to draw attention to or indicate something, often by physically extending a finger or directing someone's gaze towards it. It can also be used figuratively to suggest highlighting or emphasizing a specific fact or detail.
The idiom "open one's mouth" means to start speaking or expressing an opinion. It implies breaking silence or sharing thoughts.
Idiom: *on the point of*
Meaning: About to do something or reach a particular state or condition.
An idiom meaning to present an alternative viewpoint or contrasting information.
The idiom "on the mark" means that something or someone is accurate or correct in their assessment or prediction.
The idiom "on purpose" means to do something intentionally or deliberately rather than by accident or coincidence.
The idiom "not to put too fine a point on it" means to say something without being overly precise or explicit, typically to avoid causing offense or discomfort.
The idiom "not to mention" is used to introduce an additional point or example that strengthens a previous statement. It implies that the point being added is so obvious or well-known that it doesn't need to be explicitly stated.
The idiom "make a show of oneself" means to behave in a way that draws attention to one's embarrassing or foolish actions, often resulting in humiliation or ridicule.
Hidden Meaning
The idiom "make a point" is a commonly used expression in English. It conveys the act of expressing or emphasizing a specific idea or argument. When someone uses this idiom, they are highlighting their intention to communicate a particular viewpoint. This can occur in various contexts, such as during a discussion, debate, or casual conversation. The goal is to ensure that their thoughts or opinions are heard and acknowledged by others. By making a point, individuals aim to assert the validity, relevance, or significance of their statements and arguments.
One related idiom to "make a point" is "get the point". This phrase is used when someone wants to confirm that they understand the intended meaning or message. For example, if someone is explaining a complex concept and the listener responds with "I get the point", it means that they have grasped the main idea being conveyed. It signifies comprehension and acknowledgment of the information.
In addition to "get the point", another related idiom is "point out". This phrase is used when someone wants to draw attention to or highlight a specific piece of information or detail. For instance, if someone is giving a presentation and says "I would like to point out that...", they are indicating that they want to bring a particular aspect to the audience's attention. It emphasizes the importance or significance of the highlighted information.
Another idiom related to "make a point" is "get to the point". This phrase is used when someone wants to encourage or request someone else to be concise and direct in their communication. For example, if someone is rambling during a conversation and the other person says "Can you please get to the point?", it means they want the speaker to stop digressing and focus on the main idea or information they are trying to convey. It emphasizes the need for brevity and clarity.
Lastly, the idiom "take a stand" is also related to "make a point". This phrase is used when someone wants to express a strong opinion or position on a particular issue. For instance, if someone says "I am taking a stand against injustice", it means they are making a firm statement and emphasizing their stance on the matter. It signifies a willingness to express one's views and opinions openly and assertively.
The origins of the idiom "make a point" are uncertain, but it likely has roots in early English language usage. It is believed to be derived from the broader concept of making a mark or distinguishing oneself through verbal expression. One possible explanation is its association with the practice of physically marking or highlighting specific information on paper to draw attention to its significance. The idiom has become deeply embedded in everyday English language usage, and its flexibility allows it to be used effectively in various contexts.
As language continues to evolve, the idiom "make a point" may undergo further transformations and adaptations to suit the needs and preferences of English speakers. However, its current meaning and usage are well-established. The enduring popularity and widespread usage of this idiom reflect its relevance in the English language as a crucial component of effective communication.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "make a point" can be used in a sentence:
- He wanted to make a point during the debate, so he prepared several strong arguments.
- She made a good point about the importance of teamwork in achieving success.
- The teacher made a point of reminding the students to submit their assignments on time.
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