pinpoint

American  

[pin-point] / ˈpɪnˌpɔɪnt /

noun

1. the point of a pin.

2. a trifle; pinhead.

3. a tiny spot or sharp point.

   Synonyms:

   define, identify, localize, spot

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verb (used with object)

1. to locate or describe exactly or precisely.

   to pinpoint the problem.

adjective

1. exact; precise.

   pinpoint accuracy.

pinpoint British  

/ ˈpɪnˌpɔɪnt /

verb

1. to locate or identify exactly

   to pinpoint a problem

   to pinpoint a place on a map

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noun

1. an insignificant or trifling thing

2. the point of a pin

3. (modifier) exact

   a pinpoint aim

Etymology

Origin of pinpoint

First recorded in 1840–50; pin + point

Example Sentences

You could pinpoint the moment Scotland had England's streak stopped.

From BBC

This approach allowed researchers to pinpoint the source of the signals they recorded.

From Science Daily

Salt thinks England can beat anyone on their day and it is time for them to pinpoint a date in the calendar.

From BBC

Looking back, she struggles to pinpoint the exact moment she fell in love.

From BBC

In that study, the researchers pinpointed the two brain areas that appeared to be "talking to each other" - with brain cells firing at the same frequency - when players gave away more money.

From BBC

Related Words

• diagnose
• identify
• recognize