pinpoint

American  

[pin-point] / ˈpɪnˌpɔɪnt /

noun

1. the point of a pin.

2. a trifle; pinhead.

3. a tiny spot or sharp point.

   Synonyms:

   define, identify, localize, spot

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verb (used with object)

1. to locate or describe exactly or precisely.

   to pinpoint the problem.

adjective

1. exact; precise.

   pinpoint accuracy.

pinpoint British  

/ ˈpɪnˌpɔɪnt /

verb

1. to locate or identify exactly

   to pinpoint a problem

   to pinpoint a place on a map

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noun

1. an insignificant or trifling thing

2. the point of a pin

3. (modifier) exact

   a pinpoint aim

Etymology

Origin of pinpoint

First recorded in 1840–50; pin + point

Example Sentences

There was a pinpoint header for the opener, a trademark channel run and rounding of Lize Kop for the second, and a press and poach from the Spurs goalkeeper's error for the third.

From BBC

Despite how common it is, scientists have struggled to pinpoint exactly what causes this loss of appetite.

From Science Daily

Traditional manufacturing methods place these nitrogen groups randomly across the material, making it hard to pinpoint which specific arrangements lead to better performance.

From Science Daily

The composition is utterly still, devoid of human presence and enlivened only by fluttering harbor flags and the canvas’s scintillating pinpoints of color.

From The Wall Street Journal

In most cases, however, doctors cannot pinpoint a clear structural cause, which makes effective long-term treatment challenging.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• diagnose
• identify
• recognize