on-the-spot

American  

[on-thuh-spot, awn-] / ˈɒn ðəˌspɒt, ˈɔn- /

adjective

1. done or occurring at the time or place in question.

   an on-the-spot recording.

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on the spot Idioms  

1. At once, without delay, as in When the boss learned Tom had been lying, he fired him on the spot . This usage suggests that one does not have time to move away from a particular spot. [Late 1600s]

2. At the scene of action, as in Whenever there's a bad accident or fire, you can be sure the station will have a reporter on the spot . This usage also employs spot in the sense of “a particular location.” [Late 1600s]

3. Under pressure or in trouble, as in He's on the spot, because he can't pay back the loan . It is also phrased as put on the spot , meaning “put under pressure.” For example, The reporter's question put her on the spot; she didn't want to lie or to admit her part in the scandal . [First half of 1900s]

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Etymology

Origin of on-the-spot

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

So, in terms of stress, watching baby animals playing is the opposite of a surprise job interview or an on-the-spot subtraction task.

From BBC

As we were with Mr Hong, whose boat capsized earlier this year, a team of government inspectors arrived to carry out a series of on-the-spot checks on two of his other vessels.

From BBC

So, in terms of stress, watching baby animals animals playing is the opposite of a surprise job interview or an on-the-spot subtraction task.

From BBC

Those caught doing so will get a £200 on-the-spot fine in the first instance, rising to an unlimited fine and/or a prison sentence of up to two years for repeat offences.

From BBC

The district — where nearly all students come from low-income families — also brings in corps of tutors who walk the class and offer on-the-spot help.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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