pinpoint

[ pin-point ]

noun

1. the point of a pin.
2. a trifle; pinhead.
3. a tiny spot or sharp point.

   Synonyms: define, identify, localize, spot

verb (used with object)

1. to locate or describe exactly or precisely:

   to pinpoint the problem.

adjective

1. exact; precise:

   pinpoint accuracy.

pinpoint

/ ˈpɪnˌpɔɪnt /

verb

1. to locate or identify exactly

   to pinpoint a place on a map

   to pinpoint a problem

noun

1. an insignificant or trifling thing
2. the point of a pin
3. modifier exact

   a pinpoint aim

Word History and Origins

Origin of pinpoint¹

First recorded in 1840–50; pin + point

Example Sentences

That’s because the amount of content fed to AI bots such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT to “train” them is so immense that it’s almost impossible to pinpoint any particular content that has been infringed when the bot spits out an answer to a user’s query.

From Los Angeles Times

Back in 2012, the IDF Editorial Team described the Israeli Air Force’s ability to use so-called pinpoint targeting, “singling out terrorists and targeting them in a way which won’t endanger bystanders ... IAF pilots can even single out one target from an entire residential complex.”

From Salon

Maia Helmar’s pinpoint passing moved the Sailors within range and she connected with Maddy Michel from seven yards out to narrow the deficit.

From Los Angeles Times

Gen. Rob Bonta and Newsom’s office also reviewed more than 100 lawsuits California filed against the federal government during Trump’s first administration to pinpoint potential vulnerabilities for the state and map out the president-elect’s agenda.

From Los Angeles Times

They reviewed more than 100 lawsuits California filed against the federal government during the first administration to pinpoint potential vulnerabilities for the state and map out the president-elect’s agenda.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• diagnose
• identify
• recognize