How Do You Spell POINT AWAY?

Pronunciation: [pˈɔ͡ɪnt ɐwˈe͡ɪ] (IPA)

The phrase "point away" is spelled /pɔɪnt əˈweɪ/. The /p/ sound is made with a puff of air followed by closing the lips, while the /ɔɪ/ sound is a diphthong made by starting with an open mouth and moving to a more closed position. The /nt/ sound is made by touching the tongue to the roof of the mouth, and the final /w/, made by rounding the lips, is followed by the /eɪ/ sound, another diphthong. Together, these sounds create the spelling of "point away."

POINT AWAY Meaning and Definition

1. "Point away" is a verb phrase that refers to the act of directing or orienting something in a direction that is opposite or away from a specific point or target. This phrase is derived from the noun "point," which means a particular spot, location, or object that serves as a reference or indication.

   In various contexts, "point away" can have different meanings. In a literal sense, it can describe physically positioning something, such as a tool, object, or sign, so that it faces or directs towards a direction opposite to a given reference point. For example, if a person is pointing a flashlight away, they are angling the beam in a direction that is not toward their body or a specific point of interest.

   Figuratively, "point away" can also express the idea of shifting attention, focus, or emphasis away from a central or specific point. This can be applied in different scenarios, such as redirecting a conversation, debate, or investigation away from a particular topic or issue considered as the center of attention. In a metaphorical sense, it can also describe the act of diverting someone's thoughts, concerns, or intentions away from an objective or goal, often to distract or confuse.

   In summary, "point away" encompasses both the physical act of orienting something in a direction opposite to a reference point and the metaphorical concept of shifting attention or focus away from a particular point of interest.

Etymology of POINT AWAY

The phrase "point away" does not have a specific etymology because it is simply a combination of two common English words. "Point" comes from the Old French word "point", meaning "dot" or "mark", and it evolved in English to refer to a sharp or tapered end. "Away" is derived from the Old English word "aweg", which means "onward" or "in a different direction". When these two words are combined, "point away" generally means to direct or aim something in a different direction or away from a particular point.