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Pinpoint: meaning, definitions and examples

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pinpoint

 

[ˈpɪnˌpɔɪnt ]

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 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.

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.

Translations

Translations of the word "pinpoint" in other languages:

🇵🇹 precisar

🇮🇳 सटीक रूप से बताना

🇩🇪 genau bestimmen

🇮🇩 menentukan dengan tepat

🇺🇦 точно визначити

🇵🇱 precyzyjnie określić

🇯🇵 正確に特定する

🇫🇷 préciser

🇪🇸 precisar

🇹🇷 kesin olarak belirlemek

🇰🇷 정확히 지적하다

🇸🇦 تحديد بدقة

🇨🇿 přesně určit

🇸🇰 presne určiť

🇨🇳 准确确定

🇸🇮 natančno določiti

🇮🇸 ákveða nákvæmlega

🇰🇿 дәл анықтау

🇬🇪 ზუსტად განსაზღვრა

🇦🇿 dəqiq təyin etmək

🇲🇽 precisar

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.