make a point (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

• Phrase (idiomatic expression)

Phonetic Transcription

• /meɪk ə pɔɪnt/

Meaning and Usage

"Make a point" is an idiomatic expression used to emphasize or clarify a statement, opinion, or argument. It is commonly used in both spoken and written language, although it tends to appear more frequently in spoken discourse.

Frequency of Use

The phrase "make a point" is used regularly in discussions, debates, and presentations, indicating its importance in expressing clarity of thought or argumentation.

Example Sentences

1. "In the meeting, she really made a point about the project's importance."

2. En la reunión, ella realmente hizo hincapié en la importancia del proyecto.

3. "I want to make a point that we should consider other options before deciding."

4. Quiero señalar que deberíamos considerar otras opciones antes de decidir.

5. "He always tries to make a point when he disagrees with someone."

6. Él siempre intenta hacer valer su opinión cuando no está de acuerdo con alguien.

Idiomatic Expressions

The phrase "make a point" is commonly found in a variety of idiomatic expressions:

• “Make a point of doing something”: This means to deliberately take the time to do something.
• "She makes a point of saying thank you every time someone helps her."

• "Ella se toma la molestia de agradecer cada vez que alguien la ayuda."

• “Make a point to remember”: This implies the importance of committing something to memory.

• "You should make a point to remember her birthday."

• "Deberías hacer un esfuerzo por recordar su cumpleaños."

• “Make a point of contention”: This refers to a topic that causes disagreement.

• "The new policy has become a point of contention among the staff."
• "La nueva política se ha convertido en un punto de controversia entre el personal."

Etymology

The phrase "make a point" derives from the use of the word "point" in the context of a specific idea, argument, or detail that is made clear. Historically, "point" has its roots in the Latin word "punctum," meaning "a dot or mark," which evolved in English to signify clarity or emphasis.

Synonyms and Antonyms

• Synonyms: emphasize, highlight, stress, clarify.
• Antonyms: confuse, obscure, omit.

This comprehensive breakdown of the phrase "make a point" illustrates its significance in communication and argumentation within the English language.