Synonyms

on the dot

Idioms

Exactly on time, as in We had to be there at eight on the dot. The dot in this idiom is the mark appearing on the face of a watch or clock indicating the time in question. It may come from the earlier to a dot, meaning “exactly” since the early 1700s but no longer heard today. [c. 1900] Also see on the button.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“How do you like that? It’s five o’clock on the dot right now.”

From Literature

He rose precisely at 5 a.m. for a long workout, chugged the same protein shake afterward, took a shower at 7 a.m. on the dot.

From Los Angeles Times

“I shall be there at five, on the dot.”

From Literature

At 10 a.m. on the dot, an employee opens the door and the all-day parade begins.

From The Wall Street Journal

“Tomorrow is actually one year on the dot since I met him.”

From Los Angeles Times

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023