1
Core action
Draw attention to a fact, detail, problem, or implication by stating it explicitly.
Example
The authors point out that the sample excludes rural households.
point out
/pɔɪnt aʊt/ · point OWTattention-and-argument phrase
Draw attention to a fact, detail, problem, or implication by stating it explicitly.
Use point out to express this relationship precisely: draw attention to a fact, detail, problem, or implication by stating it explicitly.
What point out Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common construction
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
Critics pointed out a contradiction in the report.
3
Reasoning effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The essay points out the distinction between correlation and causation.
Use point out Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The authors point out that the sample excludes rural households.
Critics pointed out a contradiction in the report.
The essay points out the distinction between correlation and causation.
Precision Matters
Point out overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
point out
vs.Means draw attention to a fact, detail, problem, or implication by stating it explicitly.
emphasize the importance of
Means stress that something has substantial significance or deserves particular attention.
point out
vs.Means draw attention to a fact, detail, problem, or implication by stating it explicitly.
specifically
Means identify an exact detail, case, feature, or formulation within a broader statement.
point out
vs.Means draw attention to a fact, detail, problem, or implication by stating it explicitly.
set forth
Means present, state, or explain ideas, rules, or arguments clearly and formally.
point out
vs.Means draw attention to a fact, detail, problem, or implication by stating it explicitly.
assert
Means to state or defend a claim confidently and directly.
Test point out in Context
The reviewer explicitly draws attention to the limitation.
1
The reviewer goes beyond summarising the method to ___ a serious limitation in its sampling procedure.