Dictionary.com

put one's finger on

SEE SYNONYMS FOR put one's finger on ON THESAURUS.COM

Also, lay one's finger on.

1

Identify, as in I can't put my finger on the man in that photo. [Late 1800s]

2

See lay a finger on.

QUIZZES

TAKE THIS QUIZ IF A DAZZLING VOCABULARY IS YOUR DESIDERATUM!

Have the Words of the Day from October 19–25, 2020, made an indelible mark on your memory? Take the quiz to find out!
Question 1 of 7
What does “clement” mean?
having or claiming to have the power of seeing objects or actions beyond the range of natural vision.
mild or merciful in disposition or character; lenient; compassionate.
favorite; cherished.
TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT

Words nearby put one's finger on

put one's cards on the table, put oneself in someone's place, put oneself out, put one's face on, put one's feet up, put one's finger on, put one's foot down, put one's foot in it, put one's hand to, put one's head on the block, put one's house in order
The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.

Words related to put one's finger on

diagnose, pinpoint, describe, spot, classify, determine, analyze, establish, find, select, name, single out, remember, associate, nail, indicate, know, distinguish, peg, tell