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

It's not known exactly how they got into her account and the murky world of cybercrime means it is difficult to pinpoint if a single data breach led to someone being scammed.

Read more on BBC

The report pinpoints the role both nature reserves and sites of special scientific interest play in ensuring plants and animals survive.

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The team pinpointed a protein that enables cancer cells to alter the shape of their mitochondria, the structures that generate cellular energy.

Read more on Science Daily

Widely used blood tests may reveal unusual immune activity but often fail to pinpoint the exact problem.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

He honed a pinpoint midrange jump shot and studied opposing offenses to know exactly where to grab steals.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• diagnose 
• identify 
• recognize