# put one's finger on

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/put-ones-finger-on
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To identify, specify, name or pick out.

## Examples

- I cannot put my finger on why this tastes strange.
- Something is wrong with the engine, but the mechanic cannot quite put his finger on the problem.
- Although the atmosphere in the room felt tense, she could not put her finger on what exactly had caused the sudden shift in mood.

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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.