point-blank

American  

[point-blangk] / ˈpɔɪntˈblæŋk /

adjective

1. aimed or fired straight at the mark especially from close range; direct.

2. straightforward, plain, or explicit.

   a point-blank denial.

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adverb

1. with a direct aim; directly; straight.

2. bluntly; frankly.

   She told him point-blank that he was not welcome.

point-blank British  

adjective

1. 1. aimed or fired at a target so close that it is unnecessary to make allowance for the drop in the course of the projectile

   2. permitting such aim or fire without loss of accuracy

      at point-blank range

2. plain or blunt

   a point-blank question

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adverb

1. directly or straight

2. plainly or bluntly

Etymology

Origin of point-blank

First recorded in 1565–75

Explanation

A point-blank shot is fired from very near its target, and a point-blank statement is blunt and straightforward. During an old-fashioned gun duel, people would settle an argument by shooting at each other point-blank. The original meaning of point-blank, "close enough to hit the center of the target," definitely comes from French, although its origin is a bit of a mystery. Some think the source is point blanc, "white point," referring to the white circle in the middle of a target. Others believe it stems from de pointe en blanc, "point in empty space," used to describe a test shot fired into the air.

Example Sentences

Craig Wright was just one of numerous players battering at the Quins line, before the ball found its way to Coles, who proved unstoppable from point-blank range.

From BBC • Jan. 3, 2026

Barcelona's first clear chance came in the 70th minute, falling to Eric Garcia from point-blank range, but Dmitrovic, at full stretch, made an astonishing save to keep the scores level.

From Barron's • Jan. 3, 2026

Asked point-blank if he confirmed or denied the attack, Maduro said "this could be something we talk about in a few days."

From Barron's • Jan. 2, 2026

After providing four assists in his first six Premier League appearances for Everton, Grealish scored the 93rd-minute winner to seal his team's comeback victory after Dean Henderson had denied Beto from point-blank range.

From BBC • Oct. 5, 2025

“Let me put it this way,” I’d said point-blank.

From "Red Kayak" by Priscilla Cummings

Related Words

• bluntly
• candidly
• directly
• forthrightly
• frankly
• straightforwardly