MOOT POINT Meaning and
Definition
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A "moot point" refers to a topic or issue that is debatable or open for discussion but holds no practical significance or relevance to a particular situation. This term is often used when discussing matters that have already been resolved or are purely hypothetical. The phrase can denote a situation where the outcome of a particular argument or debate would not affect the overall outcome or result. Therefore, it implies that further discussion or deliberation on the subject is unnecessary or futile.
The origin of "moot point" can be traced back to the old English "moot," which referred to a meeting or a gathering where discussions and debates were held. Typically, these moots dealt with hypothetical or abstract topics rather than concrete issues. Over time, the term evolved to encompass the concept of an irrelevant or unimportant matter.
A moot point can arise in various contexts, such as legal proceedings, political debates, or everyday conversations. When someone mentions that a particular point is moot, they are essentially highlighting that the argument is no longer valid or that it has little significance in the current situation. Recognizing a moot point allows individuals to focus on more relevant aspects of a discussion and to avoid unnecessarily prolonging a debate that will not contribute to a resolution or decision.
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A doubtful point; a point which admits of being mooted or argued on opposite sides.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MOOT POINT
- noot point
- koot point
- joot point
- miot point
- mkot point
- mlot point
- mpot point
- m0ot point
- m9ot point
- moit point
- mokt point
- molt point
- mopt point
- mo0t point
- mo9t point
- moor point
- moof point
- moog point
- mooy point
- moo6 point
Etymology of MOOT POINT
The phrase "moot point" originated from Middle English, derived from the Old English word "mot", which meant "meeting" or "assembly". In medieval England, "moots" referred to assemblies or meetings where important issues were discussed and debated. Over time, the word "moot" came to mean a hypothetical or debatable question. Consequently, "moot point" emerged to describe a subject that is open to debate or lacks a clear resolution. The modern use of "moot point" has evolved to refer to a topic that is irrelevant or of little practical value.
Idioms with the word MOOT POINT
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be a moot point
The idiom "be a moot point" refers to a topic or issue that is uncertain, irrelevant, or no longer meaningful for discussion or debate because it is no longer applicable or cannot be resolved.
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be a moot point/question
When something is described as a moot point or moot question, it means that it is irrelevant or without practical significance. It is a matter that is no longer worth discussing or debating because the situation has changed or the outcome is already determined.
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a moot point/question
A moot point or question is one that is open to debate or discussion, but ultimately has no practical significance or relevance in the current situation. It may refer to something that is hypothetical, theoretical, or based on possibilities rather than actual facts or outcomes.
