point out
HighNeutral
Definition
Meaning
To direct someone's attention to something, making them notice or observe it.
To mention or remark upon something, often to clarify, correct, or highlight a specific fact or detail in a discussion.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a phrasal verb. It implies that the information is being highlighted for a specific reason, such as to correct an oversight, provide clarification, or support an argument. Can carry a slightly didactic or corrective tone depending on context.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or grammatical use. Spelling conventions follow regional norms (e.g., 'realise' vs. 'realize' in surrounding text).
Connotations
Slightly more common in formal British contexts as a polite alternative to more direct verbs like 'say' or 'note'. In American English, it is equally common across registers.
Frequency
Equally frequent and idiomatic in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[subject] + point out + [object] (a fact/detail)[subject] + point out + [that-clause][subject] + point + [object] + out (separable)[subject] + point out + [object] + to + [person]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “to point the finger at (related but distinct idiom)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used to highlight risks, opportunities, or discrepancies in reports or meetings (e.g., 'I must point out the budgetary shortfall').
Academic
Common in critiques and discussions to reference specific evidence or logical flaws (e.g., 'The author points out several methodological weaknesses').
Everyday
Used to make someone aware of something obvious or previously unnoticed (e.g., 'She pointed out a typo in my message').
Technical
Used to direct attention to a specific component, result, or anomaly in data or a system.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- I should point out that the deadline is tomorrow.
- He was quick to point out the error in their calculation.
- As the guide pointed out, the building dates from the 17th century.
American English
- I need to point out a problem with the schedule.
- She pointed the contradiction out to her professor.
- Critics were quick to point out the film's historical inaccuracies.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- My teacher pointed out my mistake.
- Can you point out the park on this map?
- I'd like to point out that we haven't agreed on a price yet.
- He pointed out several spelling errors in the document.
- The reviewer pointed out the novel's lack of character development, which I had missed.
- It's worth pointing out that these results are only preliminary.
- While conceding the overall success of the policy, analysts pointed out its disproportionate impact on low-income households.
- She astutely pointed out the flawed analogy at the heart of his argument.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine literally pointing your finger OUT at something you want others to see. The action connects the verb to the purpose of making something externally visible or known.
Conceptual Metaphor
KNOWING IS SEEING / COMMUNICATING IS SHOWING. You make an idea 'visible' to someone's mind by directing their mental 'gaze' to it.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating as *"указывать вне"*. The correct conceptual equivalents are "указать на (что-либо)", "отметить", or "обратить внимание".
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect word order: *'point out it'* instead of *'point it out'*. The pronoun MUST go between the verb and particle.
- Using 'point out' for physical direction only (e.g., *'He pointed out the way to the station'* is less idiomatic; 'pointed to' or 'showed' is better).
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'point out' correctly?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is a separable phrasal verb. Pronouns (it, them) must go between 'point' and 'out' (point it out). Full noun objects can go in either position (point out the mistake / point the mistake out).
'Point out' implies you are drawing special attention to something you think is significant, often something the listener may have missed. 'Mention' is more neutral, simply meaning to refer to something briefly.
It is primarily used for directing attention to facts, ideas, or details. For physically indicating a direction or object, 'point to' or 'point at' is more common, though 'point out' can be used in contexts like tourism (point out landmarks).
It depends on context and tone. It can be perceived as corrective or critical. To soften it, use phrases like 'I'd just like to point out...' or 'If I may point out...'.