pinpoint

[pin-point]

noun

1. the point of a pin.

2. a trifle; pinhead.

3. a tiny spot or sharp point.

   Synonyms: define, identify, localize, spot

verb (used with object)

1. to locate or describe exactly or precisely.

   to pinpoint the problem.

adjective

1. exact; precise.

   pinpoint accuracy.

pinpoint

/ ˈpɪnˌpɔɪnt /

verb

1. to locate or identify exactly

   to pinpoint a problem

   to pinpoint a place on a map

noun

1. an insignificant or trifling thing

2. the point of a pin

3. (modifier) exact

   a pinpoint aim

Word History and Origins

Origin of pinpoint¹

First recorded in 1840–50; pin + point

Example Sentences

Its discovery helps researchers pinpoint when ancient Egyptians began burying their royals in the Valley of the Kings—after Thutmose II’s death.

Read more on Wall Street Journal

"But because we couldn't pinpoint which one, they weren't prepared to knock doors to find out," he said.

Read more on BBC

There are two ways to pinpoint the species of an early human and work out when it walked the Earth - analysing the shape of the skull and its genetic data.

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He later interviewed nearly two dozen historians of African American art history and visual culture studies to pinpoint collective needs.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Regarding the high level of performances witnessed in Tokyo, and increasing standards overall, Coe pinpointed technological advances in the synthetic track surface, the shoes worn by the athletes, and improving coaching skills and methods.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• diagnose 
• identify 
• recognize