ENGLISH
REFERENCE

X marks the spot

idiom
Meaning

One will find what one is looking for under an obvious sign for it.


Origin

disputed origin

From a traditional crosslike mark to indicate buried treasure.

Examples
SIMPLE

Look at the map, X marks the spot.

CONTEXTUAL

The treasure hunter pointed to the map and said that X marks the spot.

COMPLEX

After years of searching through ancient archives, he finally found the document where X marks the spot of the hidden vault.

Anchors to
Related idioms6entries
  1. 01

    full marks

    Complete approval or agreement.

  2. 02

    hit the spot

    To be particularly pleasing or appropriate; to be just right.

  3. 03

    soft spot

    A sentimental fondness or affection.

  4. 04

    spot check

    A cursory inspection or examination, especially of a sample of something.

  5. 05

    spot of bother

    A slight problem; a small predicament.

  6. 06

    tight spot

    A difficult position.

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