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Pinpoint Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ“
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pinpoint

[หˆpษชnหŒpษ”ษชnt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in geography

The exact point where something is located or identified.

Synonyms

determine, identify, locate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pinpoint

Used when describing the act of finding something with great accuracy typically in difficult or complex situations. Often implies high precision.

  • Scientists were able to pinpoint the exact location of the earthquake's epicenter
  • The detective pinpointed the time of the criminal's arrival
locate

Used when finding the position or place of something. Often implies physical or geographical positioning.

  • The app can help you locate your lost phone
  • They are trying to locate the missing hiker
identify

Used when recognizing or establishing the identity of something or someone. Often implies distinguishing from a list of possibilities.

  • The police were able to identify the suspect using fingerprints
  • She identified the plant as a rare orchid
determine

Commonly used when making a decision based on facts and evidence. Often implies arriving at an understanding after a process of inquiry or calculation.

  • The judge will determine the outcome of the case
  • Researchers are trying to determine the cause of the disease

Examples of usage

  • She was able to pinpoint the location of the treasure on the map.
  • The GPS system can pinpoint your exact location within a few meters.
Context #2 | Verb

in conversation

To identify or locate precisely.

Synonyms

determine, identify, locate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pinpoint

This word is best used when you want to emphasize finding something with very high accuracy.

  • The technician was able to pinpoint the exact cause of the malfunction.
  • With the new software, we can pinpoint the exact location of the error in the code.
identify

Use this word when you need to recognize or name someone or something.

  • The police are trying to identify the suspect.
  • Can you identify any of the plants in this garden?
locate

This word is appropriate when you need to find the position of someone or something, especially after a search.

  • We need a reliable way to locate underground water sources.
  • The rescue team managed to locate the missing hikers.
determine

This word is typically used when you need to figure out or establish something through reasoning, investigation, or calculation.

  • The jury must determine if the defendant is guilty.
  • Scientists are working to determine the effects of the new medication.

Examples of usage

  • He was able to pinpoint the source of the problem quickly.
  • The detective was able to pinpoint the time of death based on the evidence.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In astronomy, pinpointing refers to accurately locating celestial objects in vast space.
  • Geographic information systems (GIS) use pinpointing to create precise maps for navigation and planning.
  • Pinpoint laser technology allows for finely targeted measurements in fields like surgery and manufacturing.

Technology

  • GPS technology can pinpoint locations on Earth to within a few meters, revolutionizing navigation.
  • In digital imaging, software can pinpoint features in photos, enhancing image editing and analysis.
  • Data analytics tools are designed to pinpoint consumer behaviors, helping businesses tailor their marketing strategies.

Literature

  • In storytelling, authors often pinpoint emotions or moments to make characters relatable and impactful.
  • Poets may use pinpoint descriptions to evoke vivid imagery and clear emotions for the reader.
  • Pinpointing key themes in a novel helps readers understand the underlying messages of the story.

Psychology

  • Psychological studies often pinpoint specific behaviors that indicate underlying emotional states.
  • Therapists help clients pinpoint their feelings to understand and address their issues better.
  • Identifying stress triggers can help individuals pinpoint sources of anxiety and manage them effectively.

Origin of 'pinpoint'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'pinpoint' originated from the use of pins, which are small and sharp, often used to mark exact locations.
  • This term first appeared in English in the late 19th century, combining 'pin' and 'point' to emphasize accuracy.
  • It was initially used in a more literal sense but has evolved to describe precise identification in various contexts.

The word 'pinpoint' originated in the early 17th century, combining 'pin' and 'point'. It originally referred to the point of a pin, but later evolved to mean the exact point or location. The verb form emerged in the 19th century, adding the concept of identifying or locating precisely.

See also: counterpoint, midpoint, point, pointed, pointedly, pointer, pointers, pointillism, pointillize, pointing, pointless, pointlessly, pointlessness, points, unpointed.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,885, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.