dead-on

[ ded-on, -awn ]

adjective

, Informal.

1. exactly right, accurate, or pertinent:

   The film director has a dead-on feel for characterization.

Word History and Origins

Origin of dead-on¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

Perhaps that goes some way to explain her mass appeal later in life, expanded in no small way by “Downton” creator Julian Fellowes’ dead-on writing for the show.

From Salon

Weirdly, your timing was dead-on for people searching for a comedic break from what is going on in the world.

From Los Angeles Times

“Her pitch was dead-on, and her rhythm was a lift to the spirit,” Mr. Reich said.

From New York Times

Cannon was dead-on about the increasingly high prices at the amusement park.

From Los Angeles Times

Johnson, known for dead-on impressions of Donald Trump and Joe Biden, was tapped for his ability to spend a lot of time improvising in character, a flair he also shows on his Instagram account.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• accurate
• precise