# point out

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/point-out
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To identify among a group of similar subjects, or in a scene where the subject might not be readily seen or noticed, with a gesture of the body.

## Examples

- Can you point out your house on this map?
- Please point out the person who took your bag.
- She points out the mistakes in my homework.
- During the tour, the guide pointed out the oldest building in the city to the group.
- I asked the waiter to point out the vegetarian options on the menu because the descriptions were confusing.
- While we were hiking, my friend pointed out a rare bird sitting quietly on a high branch.
- The mechanic pointed out a small leak under the car that I had never noticed before.
- If you look at the group photo, I will point out my brother so you know which one he is among his classmates.
- The professor pointed out several subtle contradictions in the text, forcing the students to reconsider their initial interpretation of the author's argument.

## Origin

From point and out. The construction implies the act of pointing to one particular thing out of several similar things, or to a specific item in a scene where it might not be readily seen.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.